Spoiled by Mr. Russell, Chapter 2150

That was why Austin was willing to believe something, even if it seemed far-fetched. Mike's thoughts cleared after he calmed down. "Should we trust Rhea and make a deal with the organization?" he asked.

Alexander didn't answer; he needed time to consider their options. "We've confirmed Rhea used the virus on herself," he said after a moment, "but we don't know the extent of its effects, or if there will be complications." He decided to table the matter. "Let's not make the deal, at least not yet."

"You don't trust her?" Austin asked.

"She hardly tells the truth," someone murmured. "It's understandable if Alex doesn't believe her."

Alexander shook his head. "It's the organization I worry about. Lily's important to them. They treat her as a...vessel," he said, pausing, finding the word difficult to say. "Will they let Lily go if they find a better vessel? Will they be merciful?"

Mike stared at the floor. "They'll kill her!" he murmured. "These assholes won't free Lily, even if a substitute exists. They'll end her life."

"Or...they might use Lily as a backup," someone suggested.

"They wouldn't care if there was an extra vessel. They'd just keep both," another voice added.

"We've been there twice and found nothing. Without evidence, the organization won't admit they have Lily. Telling them about Rhea might worsen things," Alexander said, shaking his head and sighing. He'd rejected the plan, but he felt disappointed. Rhea's offer might be a breakthrough, but he couldn't afford a mistake; it could be fatal. The organization was inhumane.

"So we're back to square one, huh?" Mike looked at Alexander, his eyes bloodshot. He seemed exhausted but composed after venting his frustrations. The others felt terrible for him.

"There must be another way," Austin said, trying to console them, a rare move for him. "Let's think this through again."

Mike remained silent for a while, then looked up. "I have a way."

Austin and Alexander were surprised. "Are you guys willing to help?" Mike asked.

They exchanged a look, then turned to Mike. "Just tell us what you need."