Cameron reassured Anastasia with a steady gaze. He would make the best decision for her, un swayed by Rhea's influence. However, Fabian and Maria's hopes rose; they believed Rhea possessed a crucial secret.

"Ree, what secret is it? Tell Uncle Cameron now. We're family; there shouldn't be any secrets between us," Fabian urged. "Yes, what is it?" Cameron added softly.

Rhea's lips tightened, a troubled expression crossing her face. "I can only tell Uncle Cameron. It's serious—about the institute, and I'm afraid..." She hesitated, visibly uncomfortable.

Maria, confused, protested, "Wait. There are no outsiders. Can't we know? We're your parents." The servants had already left, and she was intensely curious. Rhea's secretive nature and infrequent communication piqued her interest; this was a rare opportunity.

"Mom, do you know what kind of person you are? If you know, can you promise to keep it secret, to tell no one?" Rhea asked pointedly.

Maria was speechless. Rhea was right; Maria couldn't keep a secret. She remained silent, unable to articulate a defense.

"What do you want, then?" Cameron asked Rhea.

"Can we move somewhere private? I can only tell you everything alone." Rhea glanced around, settling on a distant room. Cameron understood. "My study, then?"

Anastasia, anxious, interjected, "Daddy, I'll come with you."

"I can only speak freely with Uncle Cameron privately. Anastasia, you're close to Lily. What if you tell her? Can you protect me if the institute comes after me?"

Rhea pressed, attempting to persuade Cameron, "What? Uncle Cameron, afraid of a petite girl like me? You're a skilled fighter. What could I possibly do?" She feigned weakness.

Cameron smirked, unfazed by her ploy. He was curious. "Come with me," he said, heading to his study.