Chapter 1770

"If the organization no longer values her and their conspiracy is about to be exposed, it's not inconceivable they would murder her to hide the truth. But when I recall every detail, everything seems…odd. Even my escape was too easy," Austin mused. He had attempted escape before, always failing. This last attempt, however, had been suspiciously smooth, dreamlike even. He'd even hurt himself to confirm its reality. Only after regaining his composure did he fully accept his escape.

He wondered about Mike. Would the organization discover Mike's involvement? What would happen to him? And why had Mike helped? If sincere, why the delay? The more Austin pondered, the more suspicious he became, yet no answers emerged. Besides, his recovery was incomplete; dwelling on such matters was unproductive while confined to Dominic's place.

"Don't worry too much!" Michelle said gently, patting his hand. She sensed his gloom, though unaware of its cause. "I think Rhea is indeed dead. Her family has been immersed in funeral arrangements for days, even purchasing a burial plot. Surveillance reports indicate Maria Moore has been inconsolable, fainting repeatedly and confined to bed. It seems genuine."

Pausing, she added, "Of course, they could be feigning grief. Our men will maintain close surveillance, ensuring we don't miss any telltale signs." Austin offered a strained smile and nodded.

"Mom, Dad, you shouldn't burden yourselves with this. I've already caused you enough trouble."

"Don't be silly!" She gently touched his hollow cheeks. "You're our son. We must help you! We should have been more attentive. I was careless, not realizing you were missing. I'm a terrible mother!"

"It's not your fault!" Austin held her hands. "Stop blaming yourself. No one anticipated this. I'm just happy you and Dad are taking care of yourselves."

"Okay, you recuperate here, and we'll handle the rest!" Michelle, persistent, broached the subject of relocating overseas.

"Not me," he stated firmly. "I was born here; my grandfather and uncle are here. Everything I want to learn is here. I'm not leaving. But you and Dad have my full support if you wish to move."

"How can we leave without you?" Michelle exclaimed, then softened. "Okay, okay, don't be upset. If you don't want to move, we won't. Our whole family will stay, and your father and I will stay by your side."

Austin grunted in assent.

Meanwhile, Anastasia had lost considerable weight, and her father had been in a coma for two days. Caring for him wasn't difficult, but managing visitors was exhausting. She felt she could no longer keep her secret. Glancing at her seemingly sleeping father, she retrieved her phone and left the room to make a call.

"Lily, when are you coming over?"