Chapter 1400

"What's wrong with the Russell family? What do you mean by 'bad luck'?"

Anastasia's nervousness was immediate. She considered Lily her best friend and wanted nothing to harm the Russells. Her aunt might be alarmist, but the possibility couldn't be dismissed.

"You shouldn't be asking!" Maria worried she might slip up.

"Aunt Maria, tell me! You can't bring it up and not explain!" Anastasia insisted.

Finally, Maria revealed, "It's no secret. The Russell family's business is in trouble. There was a poisoning incident at one of their Burnwken factories. It wasn't initially serious, but Alexander flew over to investigate. I heard it was chaotic—a war, even a plague. If something happened to Alexander, the family would be devastated. People think they're cursed. I'm not being cynical, but I worry Lily has ulterior motives for approaching you now. Be careful; don't let anyone take advantage of you."

Anastasia had stopped listening. The first part revealed she hadn't seen Alexander recently, nor had Lily mentioned him. Even Galen rarely spoke of him. He'd gone abroad and hadn't returned. No wonder Lily seemed busy.

Anastasia thought she was overthinking, unaware Lily continued supporting her despite her family's troubles. Yet, Anastasia had doubted her. Guilt washed over her.

She stood, ordering, "Someone get the car. I'm going out!"

"Tasia, where are you going? Not to Lily's? Didn't you hear anything I said? It's best you don't go there so often. If you're worried, come to my place for a meal. I'll have someone prepare something!" Maria called after her.

"Aunt Maria, I have things to do. I'll go now. I know you care. I'll tell Dad you've always helped me." Anastasia knew her aunt and uncle wanted her to speak well of them. Cameron was blunt and inflexible; even Anastasia, let alone her father, would never act improperly.

She rushed to the Russell estate, unexpectedly finding Lily at home. Previously, Anastasia would find Lily out, only returning after dinner. Now, her presence sparked concern. Could something have happened to keep Lily home?

"Tasia, you're early," Lily said, surprised it wasn't even noon.

"Lily, you…" Anastasia stammered, speechless at the sight of her.

"What's wrong?" Lily asked, puzzled.

"Did something happen in your family?" Anastasia asked directly, deciding against beating around the bush. Prolonging the conversation might only confuse Lily. Hearing this, Lily was startled, unsure what Anastasia meant. "What do you mean?"