Chapter 1536

As the road narrowed, her phone signal began to fade. Entering a lush forest, she spotted a small wooden cabin nestled within the woods. Despite the fairytale charm often associated with such dwellings, the reality felt stark.

The moss-covered cabin was simple, cleverly concealed, and surrounded by a modest fence, giving the appearance of an ordinary farmer's hut. Lily checked the address on her phone, then looked up at the cabin. She was certain this was the place; no other residences were visible. Unable to drive further, she stopped the car, exited, and walked toward the cabin.

Upon reaching the door, she realized the house was far from simple. Surveillance cameras encircled the structure, revealing a fortified exterior. This eased her apprehension slightly; he clearly prioritized his safety. Indeed, the surveillance system worked; she was greeted immediately.

"Ms. Christian?"

The man, a burly figure with a thick beard, was a stranger, yet he knew her surname.

After a slight nod, the man said, "Please come with me." He opened the door, allowing Lily to enter. He then closed the gate and strode into the house, Lily following closely. The location was well-hidden, a good hiding place with weak signal strength, making tracking difficult. She wondered how Alexander found this place, though it wasn't entirely surprising; as head of the family, he undoubtedly had helpful contacts.

Alexander wasn't in the living room. The man went to a table, retrieving two masks. He donned one, offering the other to Lily, who declined, producing her own mask. Aware of the contagious plague, she had taken precautions, bringing a mask, disinfectant, and gloves, prioritizing her and her child's safety—her paramount responsibility to Alexander and herself.

The man, startled by her preparedness, set down a bottle he'd been about to offer and watched as she methodically took her safety measures. He was impressed. Once she was finished, he led her to a back room containing only an empty bed.

Lily was stunned by its simplicity. The man approached the bed's headboard, pressing a raised piece of wood and turning it twice left, then three times right. A creaking sound followed, and the bed rotated, revealing a small tunnel. Lily saw steps descending into darkness. She paused, glancing back at the man. Silently, he produced a flashlight and led the way down.