"Didn't you tell me to apologize to her? Why can't I go?" Rhea frowned, irritation rising. "What is this nonsense?!" She would have gone alone, but wanted her parents' presence to discuss the vaccine development project. Remembering her boss's words, restlessness, and annoyance colored her tone. "Are we going or not?"

"Yes!"

"No!"

Two voices answered simultaneously.

Fabian's agreement to visit Cameron's house was a calculated move. He hoped Rhea's apology would secure Cameron's forgiveness, maintaining his connection as brother-in-law, a position that offered both opportunity and a degree of protection. Without it, he was nothing.

Maria, however, opposed the visit. Stepping forward, she grasped Rhea's wrist. "Ree, I know you feel wronged, and don't want to apologize. Besides, it's not entirely your fault. She didn't stand up for herself. You don't have to go; I'll apologize on your behalf!" She pitied her daughter and hoped to mend their relationship.

Rhea, however, looked at her mother with downcast eyes. "You'll apologize? It wasn't you who pushed her down the stairs."

Maria fell silent, unsure of Rhea's meaning.

"So, are we going or not? I'm busy," Rhea insisted, impatience etched on her face.

"Let's go!" Fabian declared, standing. "But I warn you, control your attitude. Are you going to apologize, or condemn her? And prepare a gift basket. Who goes empty-handed to beg for mercy?"

"Remember to be polite. I have no idea if they'll even let us in," Fabian added. He gestured to his wife. "Call Anastasia to see if Cameron is home."

Cameron had blocked Fabian's number, fueling his anxiety. He felt cut off.

"There's no need to call! He'll be home," Rhea interjected, seeing Maria reach for the phone.

Fabian and Maria stared at their daughter, astonished. "How do you know?"

"That's none of your concern. It's no secret whether he's home or not. Let's go!" Rhea declared, turning to leave.

Stunned, her parents quickly followed. They drove to the Rollins' house. Fabian's unease grew. "How do you know your uncle's home? Did you do something to offend him?"

"How would I know?!" Rhea snapped, staring out the window.

"Are you really clueless? Don't you know what you've done?" He was baffled. Cameron's words from the past two days weighed heavily on him; he sensed something amiss but couldn't define it.

Sensing the tension, Maria intervened. "Enough! She's going to apologize. What more do you want? Even you know Ree's barely home. How could she offend him?"