Chapter 1498

Lily felt her mind go blank. "W-What happened?"

"I can't explain it over the phone," Alexander answered quickly. "Don't tell Olivia about this yet. I'm still getting someone to check on his whereabouts. You have to take good care of yourself and the children. I've sent more men to protect you. You must be attentive and try to go out as little as possible. Avoid public places."

He seemed to hold his breath as he spoke, gasping for air when he finished. It was heartbreaking.

"Alex, what's wrong with you? What happened?" Lily's tears flowed freely.

"Don't cry!" he tried to comfort her. "You're the strongest person I know. I'm fine. Don't cry! As long as you take care of yourself, I'll feel much better. I'll be back soon. Don't be scared!"

"Then tell me what's going on." The thought of Burnwken flashed through her mind. "Did you catch the plague?"

Silence. Alexander didn't speak, but occasionally coughed uncontrollably. That was enough for Lily to know. An indescribable feeling flooded her heart. She hadn't expected him to be infected.

No wonder he hadn't come home directly, nor wanted to meet her. He must have been afraid of infecting her and the children. At this moment, Lily understood everything.

Nodding, she said, "I understand. Tell me where you are, or send me a location. You can stay there, but I have to see you."

"Lily..."

"Trust me. I can help you. I can protect myself! I've studied medicine and am well-versed in medicinal herbs," she said calmly. She knew the only way to ease his worry was through her composure, thus persuading him to agree to her request.

"Give me two more days. I need to settle down; I only just arrived," Alexander said after a moment's thought.

"One day!" Lily bargained, wishing she could leave immediately. She knew pressing him too hard would result in refusal. She could only negotiate a shorter timeframe; she was anxious and couldn't wait to reach him.

"Lily..." He sighed helplessly. She continued to reason with him. "If you disagree, I'll send people to look for you. I don't believe the Russell family's resources won't find you. If you don't want that, I will take the necessary precautions when I meet you."

Silence. But Lily felt Alexander yielding. Soon, he sighed faintly. "Okay—one day. I'll send you the location the day after tomorrow. Remember to take precautions and don't bring too many people with you, understand?"

"Okay!" she replied. Of course, she understood. Plagues were contagious, and their spread was unpredictable. Fewer people meant less risk. Knowing he was about to hang up, Lily quickly said, "Alex..."