The old man was momentarily stunned, his expression shifting instantly. He was about to hand over the child when he saw Galen's innocent eyes as the boy reached out, instantly softening his heart. Dominic retracted his arms, hugging Galen before reluctantly saying, "How dignified of you, Mr. Russell."

"Do you think I'd refuse if you asked?" Dominic grumbled, rubbing the boy's back. He was weary. He could overlook it if Lily had asked, but now even her husband was at his door. He wasn't a full-time nanny!

"Mr. Fike, you've misunderstood. Under these circumstances, I couldn't find a more suitable candidate," Alexander pleaded, his face troubled, devoid of any arrogance. Dominic laughed mockingly. "Am I the right candidate? Then I should thank you for your high opinion, Mr. Russell."

Alexander didn't take the old man's cynicism to heart. He knew of Dominic's temper. He'd come for help; arrogance was inappropriate. "Mr. Fike, you truly are the most suitable. I needn't explain our situation; you know it well. I worry for Galen's safety. You're the person Lily trusts most, the one she entrusted Galen to before. I naturally trust those she does."

Before Alexander finished, Dominic raised a hand. "Enough flattery. What's this about? Aren't you back already? Who are you looking for now?" The last time Lily left Galen with Dominic, she'd been looking for Alexander. Who was it this time?

After a pause, Alexander revealed the truth. "She's gone to work with the organization."

"Which organization?" The old man was momentarily dazed.

"Rhea is dead, so Lily is taking her place. There are incomplete experiments," Alexander replied gravely.

"She what?!"

The old man stood up in shock, momentarily forgetting the child in his arms. Anger threatened to consume him. He stammered, "She… she…" Holding Galen in one hand, he pointed ahead with a trembling hand, furious.

The sudden movement startled Galen, who stared at the old man with wide eyes, clutching Dominic's beard.

"Hiss!"

Dominic winced, quickly composing himself. He took a deep breath, gently patting the boy. "Don't be scared. I was just playing!" He sat down again. His face was grim as he looked at Alexander. "What are you doing?"

"Mr. Fike, I can't explain, but please trust Lily," Alexander said, straightening. "Just trust her."

"What are you saying?!" The old man frowned. "Of course I trust her! But how could she do something so dangerous? She's pregnant!"

Hearing about Lily's involvement with the organization, Dominic immediately considered her actions. Could he possibly believe Lily had been manipulated by those people? She was his apprentice, he'd watched her grow. He knew what kind of person she was.