Chapter 1592

"There's nothing mysterious about the department, but I can't say it isn't mysterious either!" Dominic hedged.

Lily glared at him before he continued, "It's simple, really. They specialize in the study of strange phenomena. Besides the plague, they've investigated unexplained occurrences science can't account for."

"You mean spiritual things?!" Her eyes widened.

He waved dismissively, as if reading her mind. "No, no. It's not just doctors. They have architects, special police forces, and various other specialists. In short, they're an elite group from diverse backgrounds."

His smile was disarming. "Speaking of which, you're an elite, too."

Lily rolled her eyes. "You deserve the credit."

Dominic chuckled, ignoring her sarcasm. "This department and I have a history. They approached me in my forties, but you know me—being confined to research every day would suffocate me. I haven't heard from them since I declined—until now."

"That's why you sold me out!" Lily grumbled, glancing at him.

"I recommended the most talented person I know! Not 'sold you out'," the old man corrected, disapprovingly.

"So, instead of you being cooped up doing research, you wanted me to take your place?" She was still upset he hadn't consulted her.

Dominic raised his hands in surrender. "I didn't mean to leave you in the dark, but they were in a hurry. I didn't expect them before you, and they seemed rushed. You were busy, so...I didn't have time to discuss it."

Lily considered this. Her calls to him had been brief and guarded, fearing surveillance. She'd kept them as short as possible, avoiding anything important.

"Fine. You're right."

She saw servants exiting with large bags of herbs. "I'm going now."

"Hey..." The old man stood. "Do you really not want to see your son?"

She halted. She did want to see Galen; it had been days. She missed him. But wouldn't it be sadder for him if they met and she couldn't take him? Sighing, she said, "Forget it. I won't see him. I'll have plenty of time once this is over." Dominic sighed but said nothing.

Though stern, Lily couldn't help glancing upstairs as she left. To her surprise, her son stood on the balcony. He seemed to notice her and waved vigorously. Tears welled in her eyes. Leaving him was difficult.

"Mummy, I'll wait for you!" Galen shouted.

"Listen to Grandpa!" Lily yelled back, waving.

Lily had planned to go home, pack, visit Alexander at the hospital, settle some matters, and remind Greg before going to the mysterious department. Unexpectedly, she noticed a car following her at a crossroads. It seemed to be waiting for her.

Rather than avoid it, she pulled alongside, braking just short of a collision. She saw the woman in the driver's seat. Despite the cap and mask, Lily recognized her instantly: Olivia.

What a surprise! Lily had expected Rhea, or someone from the department, not Olivia.

Lily unbuckled her seatbelt and exited, shocked. Olivia paused, then quickly got out as well.