Cameron's Adam's apple bobbed; he swallowed the pill. Anastasia breathed a sigh of relief. "My father swallowed it!" "Water!" Alexander, still supporting Cameron's head, reached for her. Anastasia quickly handed him a glass of water. He gave some to Cameron; though some spilled, he had managed to get some down.

Watching her father, Anastasia was nearly overcome with emotion. They had at least gotten the pill down. Now, they could only wait.

"When will my father wake up?" she asked.

Alexander shook his head. "I have no idea."

Lily had only instructed them to observe Cameron's reaction; the toxin was unusual, and she couldn't monitor its effects in person.

A knock sounded at the door. Anastasia recognized Fabian's voice, followed by a servant's anxious protest. "Mr. Moore, you can't go in. You... Miss Rollins? Miss Rollins!"

Anastasia exchanged a look with Alexander, took a deep breath, and opened the door. Fabian nearly collided with her, stopping just in time. He grinned. "Tasia, your servants are becoming increasingly unruly!"

"Uncle Fabian, didn't I tell you not to disturb my father? Don't you understand the situation?" Anastasia remained calm, her tone even.

"Of course I do! That's why I'm worried!" Fabian exclaimed. "It's been days, and he's still unconscious! Do you know the rumors? We're running out of time! We should send your father to the hospital..."

He attempted to enter, seemingly intending to take Cameron by force.

"Uncle Fabian!" Anastasia blocked him. "I told you we can't send my father to the hospital because of his position. You'll only make things worse!"

"What the hell are you talking about? How am I making things worse? I'm your uncle!" Fabian, agitated, tried to push past her. "Even if not a public hospital, a private one? I know many doctors, and I can find someone trustworthy. It's better than doing nothing and letting the gossip spread!"

But Anastasia held firm; her strength proved too much for him.

Standing with arms akimbo, Anastasia said, somewhat upset, "Uncle Fabian! That's my father. Do you think I don't want him to get better? Just listen to me, for my father's sake, and for everyone's!"

Fabian, seeing her anger, hesitated. Two days at home had been filled with inquiries from the vaccine development center. He was restless, his wife bedridden with grief over their lost daughter.