Chapter 1617

"I understand, but what about Alex?" Lily worried, despite the medical staff and Greg's presence. Outsiders lacked knowledge of the virus, but thankfully, she still had her phone. For everyone's sake, she followed the rules and nodded.

"I got it. I won't leave; I'll stay here."

Dr. Blanc sighed. "I know I'm asking a lot, but I hope you all understand the unusual circumstances. I won't be going home either."

Lily nodded, then paused. "Dr. Blanc, how long is the incubation period?"

"Based on our limited data, about seven days. However, with the few cases in the country, we can't be certain it won't be longer."

Lily understood; she couldn't leave for at least seven days. She retired to her assigned room—small but adequate, with necessities as promised. There was even an attached bathroom.

Lily sat, supporting her aching lower back. Exhaustion finally hit, and sleepiness crept in as she relaxed. She reached for her phone to call about Alexander, but before dialing, her eyelids fluttered shut, and she drifted off. A vibration jolted her awake.

Dazed, it took moments to orient herself. It was Anastasia calling. Lily rubbed her temples, sat up, and answered.

"Hello?"

"Lily, you haven't come home," Anastasia stated directly.

Lily grunted. "I have matters to attend to and won't be back soon."

Anastasia hesitated. Lily prompted, "Is it your father again?"

"Yes…" Anastasia's voice was hoarse with tears. "I shouldn't bother you, you must be busy, but… I have nowhere to go."

"Nowhere to go?" Lily sat up, confused.

"I ran away. I'm scared my father will find me. I'm running low on cash; I can't use apps."

Lily frowned at Anastasia's incoherent explanation. "Tasia, where are you? Why did you run away?"

Would Cameron become so cruel? It's unlike him! He might not be a doting father, but he loves his daughter. How could he leave her stranded? "It's a long story. My father listened to my cousin and locked me up, taking my phone. If he weren't away, I couldn't have escaped. I'm terrified he'll find me and lock me up again." Anastasia sniffled. "Lily, I haven't taken my medicine. I'm tired and hungry. I don't know where else to go."