At eight o'clock that morning, a black car arrived at the Russells' gate. Simultaneously, Lily's phone rang. She glanced at the caller ID, then hung up. Gathering her packed belongings, she finished her milk and told Alexander, "I'm leaving."

He replied, "If you feel anything is wrong, stop and call me immediately." She nodded and started toward the door.

"Lily," he called. She paused, and he quickly embraced her, holding her silently. The warmth was comforting. Lily, startled initially, leaned into him, savoring the moment. They both knew what lay ahead was dangerous, but retreat was impossible.

"It's almost time," she whispered, patting his shoulder. There was no reason to delay.

Alexander released her, taking her hand instead. "I'll walk you out." She considered refusing, but seeing his face, she nodded. "Okay, let's go."

His hand was slightly sweaty, his face solemn—a rare display of nervousness. Lily gently scratched his palm, trying to soothe him. He simply tightened his grip.

Mike waited by the car. Their arrival together was unsurprising. He straightened, then started to apologize, but Lily interrupted. "It's meaningless now. Let's go!"

Mike fell silent, glancing hesitantly at Alexander before asking, "Are we still friends?"

Alexander raised an eyebrow but didn't answer. Mike, with a sarcastic smile, muttered, "My question was superfluous." He opened the back door for Lily. As he moved to the driver's side, Alexander stopped him. "If my wife returns safely, I will always be grateful."

Mike looked up, momentarily stunned, then understood. Alexander wanted him to protect Lily. He nodded fiercely. "I promise I'll do my best to protect her, even if it costs my life!"

Alexander nodded slightly, and Mike quickly entered the car and drove away.

As the car disappeared, a voice in Alexander's earpiece asked, "Mr. Russell, you're not following them?"

Alexander tilted his head. "There's no reason to."