When the kids heard that Mommy was leaving tomorrow, they clung to Deanna more than usual that night.
After finally getting them to sleep, Deanna tiptoed out of the bedroom and went to the study.
She initially intended to tell Lance about her plans to visit the villa the next day, but her attention was caught by a luxurious black invitation with gold trim on Lance's desk.
"What is this?" Deanna asked, pointing at the invitation.
Lance followed her gaze and explained, "This is an invitation to the International Business Conference."
"International Business Conference?" Deanna looked puzzled.
Seeing her confusion, Lance's eyes showed a hint of disdain as he explained, "You can think of this business conference as a gathering of bored aristocrats showing off."
Deanna was taken aback. It was the first time she had seen Lance so dismissive about something.
She thought for a moment and said, "If you don't like it, just decline the invitation."
"This business conference can be declined by others, but not by me. I'm a representative," Lance said, shaking his head with a grim expression.
Deanna guessed there must be other unpleasant reasons behind it; otherwise, Lance wouldn't look so troubled. Although curious, she decided not to press further to avoid affecting his mood.
Just as she was about to change the subject to their plans for tomorrow, Lance's pleasant voice interrupted her again. "You should come with me to this business conference."
Lance intended to use this opportunity to take Deanna abroad for some relaxation. She had been on edge in the lab, constantly guarding against potential data theft, almost to the point of paranoia. Their research had made no progress recently, and Deanna had been losing sleep over it, even having nightmares. Despite resting for two days, Lance was still worried.
Deanna was momentarily stunned by Lance's suggestion but then shook her head and refused. "I can't go. If I leave, the lab will come to a complete halt."
"Hmm?" Lance hadn't expected Deanna to refuse for this reason and looked at her with curiosity.
Seeing his questioning look, Deanna explained, "Mr. Grant took a month off to care for Julia after her miscarriage. If I take a break too, there will be no one left in the lab."
"I see," Lance nodded but became even more determined to take Deanna along.
He thought for a moment and said, "Even if you and Lionel are both absent, Brent will still be there. Besides, your progress alone isn't fast. I think you should take this chance to rest."
"I'd rather not. Although my progress alone is slow, at least it's ongoing. You know how tight our timeline is," Deanna insisted on refusing.
Lance frowned slightly in disagreement. "I know you don't want to waste time, but as far as I know, you've hit a roadblock in your research. You and Lionel couldn't solve it together; do you think you can solve it alone?"
Deanna was left speechless by his words.
Seeing her hesitation, Lance continued, "Instead of working alone in the lab, come with me and broaden your horizons. It might inspire you. This way, you can relax and not be so exhausted. Plus, I'll feel more at ease. You may not realize it, but seeing you so tired and obsessed with work worries me. I'm afraid you'll collapse when I'm not around."
Lance's heartfelt words moved Deanna deeply.
She knew Lance always cared about her well-being.
In the end, she agreed to attend the business conference with him.
Fortunately, there was still a week before the conference started, giving Deanna enough time to arrange things at the lab and research institute.
The next morning, Deanna drove over early because she had promised Julia to accompany her for surgery.
Lionel arrived at the same time.
Noticing the insulated lunch box in Lionel's hand, Deanna guessed it was breakfast for Julia and smiled as she greeted him, "Good morning, Mr. Grant."
"Good morning, Miss Jones," Lionel replied with a gentle smile.
Just then, Julia walked out of the apartment in casual clothes. Seeing Lionel standing nearby, her expression immediately soured.