Chapter 1534

"Is your leg injured?" Mike asked, noticing the bloodstained bandage on Austin's leg.

"It's all thanks to you guys!" Austin replied sarcastically. He suspected it was an act, but Mike's raised eyebrows and denial— "It wasn't me"—suggested otherwise.

"Aren't you all on the same side?" Austin gritted his teeth, his hatred evident. Despite being rescued, Mike's association with Rhea and the others left him unconvinced of his rescuer's sincerity.

Mike, seemingly unfazed, retracted his outstretched hand and gave Austin a cold look. "If that's what you think, I'll leave then. You can stay here."

Austin's pride urged silence, but his survival instinct kicked in as Mike turned to go. "Wait a minute!"

Mike paused, turning nonchalantly. "I'll go with you."

Gritting his teeth, Austin stood, limping behind Mike. At the door, two people blocked their path.

"Mr. Corden..." one began.

"What's wrong? Are you blocking me?" Mike's tone turned icy. His seriousness was intimidating.

"No, but Ms. Moore ordered..."

"Her orders have nothing to do with me. I have the final say here, not she! Rhea Moore is merely the leader of your project team. Know your place!" He snapped, adding, "Move!"

The men obeyed, allowing Mike and the limping Austin to leave. Austin, unsure of Mike's identity, sensed a higher position than Rhea's and a genuine intention to save him. This eased his apprehension.

Outside, Mike ushered Austin into a black car, providing water and food. "Eat up. Don't die in my car," he grunted. The harsh words belied his actions.

Austin, ravenous after days of hunger, devoured the food. Once satisfied, he looked up at the driving Mike. "Aren't you worried Rhea might cause a scene?"

"She can't control what I do!" Mike scoffed.

"What are you doing in that lab? I've never seen you. How did you find out about the lab's activities? Do you know Lily? Are you friends? Does she know what you did?" The pent-up questions poured forth, a release of tension.

His relief was palpable, but his rapid-fire questioning caused him to choke on his food.

"Shut up!" Mike snapped, irritated by the incessant barrage of questions.