Fabian's fury simmered. Being unable to dismiss Anastasia in front of his business rival was infuriating. "Stupid girl," he spat, "are you defying me for some outsider?"
"I'm only doing this for my father!" Anastasia shielded her father protectively. "He's just taken medication and will be fine soon. I won't allow you to cause trouble now!"
"Medication? What medication? Did he bring it himself? Do you trust him so much?" He paused, then chuckled coldly. "Or did his wife tell you he was poisoned?"
He suddenly recalled Maria's earlier complaints about Lily, dismissed as insignificant then. Lily's seriously brainwashed my niece, he thought.
Anastasia remained noncommittal. "Uncle Fabian," she said, "making a fuss won't help. Go. Let me care for my father."
"I'm not making a fuss! I'm concerned about his health and want him in the hospital. Don't you realize even higher-ups will be suspicious of his prolonged absence? Not to mention those seeking favors from him."
The vaccine development project was underway, but Fabian's knowledge was superficial. He merely toured the facility and briefed key researchers. Rhea, who had introduced him, was gone, leaving him feeling disconnected. Despite his investment and responsibility, he knew nothing of the end product. He’d relied entirely on Rhea, and now he had to oversee the research himself.
They were close to success, but Cameron's written approval was needed before mass production. Already anxious about his brother-in-law's illness, Fabian suspected Alexander and his wife. Revenge? They're upset I stole their project. Cameron's supposed poisoning and the need for secrecy—it's all to stop me from interfering. They might have even caused his illness.
Fabian's jaw clenched. He sighed, his gaze softening slightly. "I'm not being unreasonable, Anastasia. I worry others are taking advantage of your youth and naiveté." He glared at Alexander. "Your father holds a high position, known for his integrity. Many try to exploit him. I fear you've been manipulated."
Anastasia saw his concern, understood his intent, and narrowed her eyes. "You're overthinking it. I'm young, but I've faced many ordeals. My father taught me to judge character. I know who uses kinship for gain, and who genuinely cares. Besides, you're busy. Don't worry about my family."
Her words stung. He was being mocked. "Are you saying I'm using you?"
"I never said that. But I can't help it if you interpret it that way," she shrugged indifferently. Her unconcerned demeanor enraged him further.
"Your aunt and I raised you, cared for you, and you think we're using you? That outsiders are better?" He stamped his foot. "Fine. I'll show you who your family is, and who the hell is using you!"
He pulled out his phone. "There's nothing you can do to stop me!"