Chapter 1499

"Are you in Kingsland's city area?" Lily asked cautiously.

"No," Alexander replied with certainty.

"Got it," she murmured, already suspecting he wouldn't be near the city. If he had contracted the disease, recuperating far from people would be best. The question had merely confirmed her assumptions.

"Take care of yourself. The kids and I are fine. Don't worry!" Lily urged, wanting to avoid nagging him. He needed rest most of all. Hearing his cough and wheeze had been heartbreaking, but she was thankful for his safety and return; a great relief. At least she could postpone her plans to fly to Burnwken for now.

However, something had happened to Edward. Telling Olivia proved difficult. Life had a way of highlighting what one tried hardest to avoid.

Olivia arrived early the next day, a large backpack at her side as she waited downstairs. Lily didn't want to lie, but she knew she couldn't hide the truth forever. Finally, she descended the stairs, shocked to see Olivia's eager face and burdened pack.

"Lily, after much consideration, I feel we should go to Burnwken together."

"Olivia..." Lily began, troubled.

Anticipating Lily's objection, Olivia interrupted, "Listen. I've thought it through. While I can't do much, you're right; the company there is still under La Beaute Group's protection. Since the skin sample I received was fake, Edward is fine. Once we find them, he can protect me if anything happens!"

"Olivia..." Lily started again.

Despite Olivia's calm face, her darting eyes betrayed her anxiety.

"Lily!" Olivia interrupted again, fearing rejection. She grabbed Lily's arm. "Please, let me go with you! I might go insane if I stay another day! I haven't slept in two days! Every time I close my eyes, all I see is Edward—covered in blood. I reach for him, but he disappears! I'll go crazy before he returns! Lily, please bring me! Look, I haven't overpacked; just a few changes of clothes. I won't be a burden, I promise!" She raised a hand, crossing her heart.

Olivia wasn't typically courageous; carefree and reliant on others. The dark circles under her eyes spoke volumes about her sleepless nights. If Olivia learned what had happened to Edward, Lily didn't know how she would cope. The situation was unclear; Lily didn't know what had happened to Edward, nor how to explain it to Olivia.

Finally, Lily sighed. "Olivia, it's not that I don't want you to come, but I've changed my mind about going to Burnwken."

"What?!" Olivia stared, shocked. "You're not going? Really? Are you lying to me?!" Fearful that Lily was deliberately avoiding her, she watched Lily nod solemnly, pulling her inside.

"Sit down. Listen to me."

"Do you not care about them anymore? Aren't you worried about Mr. Russell? Why did you suddenly change your mind?" Olivia asked anxiously.