Chapter 1683

"Dr. Blanc, I don't understand," Edmund began, attempting a defense, but Lily interrupted.

"Is this really necessary?" Edmund fell silent.

"Do you think you can lie your way out of this? Or did you believe we'd arrive without proof?" Lily’s gaze lingered on Edmund, a complex mix of emotions swirling within her. She knew both Dr. Blanc and Edmund best, and while far from friends, they had worked well together. Initially, she sensed his distrust, but she'd come to see him as relatively objective. She could accept his prejudice, mirroring Austin’s, but betraying them was difficult to believe.

Edmund laughed at Lily's words and Dr. Blanc's expression. He tilted his head back, letting out a long sigh. A weight seemed lifted; he relaxed, his smile becoming unsettlingly creepy.

"I never anticipated this," he murmured, shaking his head slowly. Then, quietly and perplexedly, he added, "How did you find out? When? I've never made a mistake. I've worked diligently and served Dr. Blanc well. Besides..." He paused, cocking his head, peering at Lily. "I haven't made things difficult for you, have I?"

"You didn't reveal yourself," Lily replied. "You did well. I didn't suspect you at all, initially. Until Dashiell appeared."

"Him?" Edmund frowned, baffled. "What does he have to do with this?" He thought, I'm not close to Dash; I've kept my distance. Why is Lily saying it's because of Dashiell?

"Indeed, Dashiell seems suspicious, but that's precisely why I doubt him," Lily explained, revealing her hand. "He's not on good terms with me, and his prejudice is so blatant—secretly giving Debbie medicine to worsen her condition. It's too obvious. Not just anyone can join our department, let alone infiltrate it for another organization. Dashiell is too… obvious."

"Too obvious?" Edmund questioned incredulously.

Dr. Blanc cleared his throat. "No, Lily means such a person wouldn't draw attention to himself. Now, I'll ask. Who do you work for? Why are you doing this? What were your instructions?"

"It's pointless to ask," Edmund sighed. "We bear responsibility for our choices. I failed, and I admit it. Don't ask me anything. I won't answer."

"Edmund! Tell us while you still can. You may not have the chance later," Dr. Blanc said grimly. Edmund knew he could explain to Dr. Blanc, but the military wouldn't listen. He understood this, having worked alongside Dr. Blanc for so long. He smiled, raising an eyebrow. "Thank you, Dr. Blanc! I mean it. I've learned much working with you. However, I don't need this… chance." Smiling, he spread his arms, tilting his head back.

"He's trying to kill himself!" Lily screamed.

Alexander reacted instantly, darting forward to seize Edmund's hand and grip his face.