Maria grew nervous as Rhea announced their imminent departure. "You're leaving so soon? I haven't even had a chance to talk to you properly. Oh, I had someone prepare kale soup for you and—" Before she could finish, Rhea impatiently interrupted, "I already told you, there's no need. I don't have time for soup. I have important matters to attend to. Don't you understand?!"

Her voice rose in frustration. Maria, shocked, stood speechless.

Mike observed the situation. "Indeed, we have important things to do," he said smoothly. "You can save the soup for later."

His words eased Maria; her expression softened. "Yes, yes, you can have it later," she repeated. "I'll save it for you, and you can have it when you return!"

Rhea seemed surprised by Mike's intervention. She glanced at him briefly but offered no thanks. "All right, we're leaving," she declared, waving. "Take care of him. If anything seems amiss, inform me immediately. Understand?"

Maria nodded repeatedly. "I understand, I understand. I'll take care of everything you've entrusted to me!"

Pausing, she remembered something. "Are you sure we shouldn't tell your father about this?"

"Yes!" Rhea firmly refused. "He can be too lenient, and there are things I don't want him to know."

Maria started to speak, but seeing her daughter's expression, she swallowed her words. "All right! I'll listen to you!"

Satisfied, Rhea said nothing more, glancing at Mike. He shrugged. "How about I drive?"

"No need," Rhea coldly refused.

Mike remained calm, entering the car after Rhea before she drove away. He remained silent throughout the journey, casually observing the passing scenery and reflecting on the events.

Rhea is much more cunning than I imagined. Still, I want to know how she managed to bring Cameron here. It's likely connected to the experiments, but what role can Cameron play in negotiations with the organization?

Rhea drove in silence until they reached the research facility. Turning to Mike, she said, "I've revealed things we shouldn't have. If you divulge anything you shouldn't, I guarantee you'll lose everything you hold dear."

Mike chuckled. "And what are those things I hold dear?"

Rhea wasn't amused. Glaring, she said, "Don't play games with me. I'm not joking; you should know what I'm capable of!"

Mike shrugged at her fierce expression. "Well, since you've threatened me, I have no choice but to comply."

Despite his words, Rhea didn't fully trust him. She stared intently, seemingly contemplating something.

Suddenly, Mike's phone rang. He took it out, checking the caller ID. It was Alexander. He instinctively glanced at Rhea.

She noticed. He was about to reject the call when Rhea said, "Answer it!"

Mike fell silent.

"Wait!" she quickly added. "Put it on speakerphone!"