Lily was surprised Fred would try to protect Rhea, considering he had abandoned her and the research center previously, forcing Rhea to go to great lengths to find him. Still, he refused Lily's request.

"Do you think I'd simply give her away?" Fred smiled. "You're mistaken. She's skillful and loyal. Why would I discard her? As for your cooperation, it's not your decision. Don't be naive."

He turned to Dominic. "Lock him up!"

Lily protested, "If you don't release Dominic, you'll be asking for trouble," warning him of the consequences.

Fred chuckled, turning halfway toward her. "Oh, really? But I'm not afraid of trouble. Lily, do you think I've forgotten how you played me last time? I'll settle the old score with you after the experiment. You don't have much time left."

He left the room and found Rhea watching him from afar. He frowned, approaching her. "You shouldn't have come here." He blamed her for provoking Lily.

"I'm sorry! I couldn't help it," Rhea murmured.

"You'll be truly sorry if you fail," Fred glared. "Don't think for a moment I was protecting you. You should know my reasons."

"I do, and I thank you for this chance to prove myself," she said respectfully, lowering her head.

Fred was pleased; he needed someone obedient and capable. He grunted and strode away.

Rhea slowly raised her head and glanced toward Lily's room, smirking. The duke hadn't used her as a bargaining chip, indicating her usefulness to him. She could secure her place at the embassy if she successfully developed the invisibility potion—but she still had to earn it.

After lunch, Alexander attended to business while Austin returned to the X Department. Dominic had summoned Austin because the department, busy sorting and processing materials from the research center, needed his expertise. Only Ross and Mike remained at Alexander's house. The prince relaxed, enjoying his coffee in the living room.