"Okay, let's say he changed. What are you planning to do next? Are you going to cut him off?" Lily knew Anastasia was furious, so she played along.

"Yeah! Who cares! I'm not scared of him!" Anastasia retorted.

Lily laughed. "It's not about fear, Anastasia. It's about your reluctance."

"I...of course, I'm willing to! There's nothing to be reluctant about!"

"Silly girl! It's just a dispute. Adults weigh the pros and cons before acting. I'm not dismissing your feelings, but maybe your father had other things to consider. Maybe he isn't ignoring you; maybe he's just postponing things," Lily said.

Frankly, she had no idea what was happening with Cameron. Anastasia's story sounded strange, even without witnessing it firsthand. Still, things were more complex than they appeared.

Lily had met Cameron several times. She'd seen his love for Anastasia. Alexander had also spoken highly of Cameron's character; he wouldn't strike a self-serving deal, especially not one involving his favorite daughter.

Something seemed amiss, or perhaps Cameron had other plans.

"What are the pros and cons? Am I just a bargaining chip? Isn't he giving up on me?!" Anastasia didn't understand. She only knew her father had seemingly sacrificed her to acquire laboratory secrets.

"That's not the case. Your father has protected you well. There are things you don't know! Things aren't always as they seem. Calm down and think about how he's treated you all these years. Is he truly self-interested? You're the only one who knows the answer."

Lily added, "Don't make rash decisions when you're angry. You'll often regret them later."

Anastasia eventually calmed down. Her sadness and anger subsided, replaced by disappointment.

"Okay, I understand. Thanks, Lily." Her voice was calmer; she was no longer crying.

Lily nodded. "How have you been? Are you taking the herbs I prescribed?"

"Yes. I followed your instructions and haven't missed a meal. I feel much better physically and have even lost weight. I've been in a good mood until today."

After a sigh, she brightened. "Don't worry. I've thought things through and won't argue with my father. I'll wait. I believe you, and I believe in my father!"

"That's the spirit!" Lily had just finished comforting her when Greg rushed toward her. Her heart sank. "I have to go now. Call me if you need anything."

She hung up and approached Greg. "What's wrong?"

"He vomited blood," he said.

Lily was shocked and ran toward the cabin.

When Austin opened his eyes, he thought he was in hell. But as his vision cleared, he saw a white ceiling. 'Why is hell white? Am I...in heaven? Is this a hospital?'

He was still pondering when he heard a door open. Someone entered and stood before him.