Lily laughed mockingly. "So, you're saying we don't need evidence? As long as you want to do it, you can? The boss has only briefly disappeared, and you're already showcasing your power. Are you saying everything will be your call if he's gone? If that's the case, you're the prime suspect!"

Shocked, Rhea retorted, "I didn't say that!" She swallowed angrily, feeling Rick's calm gaze. A chill ran down her spine.

She knew Rick; she'd met him several times, often by the boss's side. A man of few words, always indifferent, his actions were cruel and vicious. Once, she'd accidentally witnessed him punishing someone. Despite her desensitization to experiments and bloodshed, the scene had sickened her. An inexplicable, deep-seated fear of Rick had since taken root.

"Have you searched everywhere?" Rick asked Mike.

Mike nodded. "Everywhere, even under the carpets. All the secret rooms."

Rick fell silent.

Lily, who'd been trying to remain uninvolved, spoke. "I have a question."

All eyes turned to her. Rhea stifled a sarcastic retort. Rick nodded slightly, encouraging her.

"As you've said, I'm not loyal to the boss, and his disappearance doesn't affect me. What does matter is whether we continue the experiment. Mine's almost complete, and I know the boss, and the higher-ups, valued this project highly. But now... do we prioritize looking for the boss or continuing the experiment?" Her eyes darted between Rick, Mike, and Rhea.

Mike started to say, "Of course, we—" then stopped, looking at Rick.

Lily saw the power dynamic. Superficially, the trio were equals, yet both Mike and Rhea seemed more afraid of Rick, deferring to him. Lily, however, remained objective and indifferent—her usual demeanor. Everyone knew she'd been forced to work here; sudden worry would be suspicious.

Rick considered this before saying slowly, "We'll search for the boss and continue the experiment simultaneously. We'll handle the search while you..." He paused. "...you and Miss Moore continue the experiment. Complete it according to plan! Mr. Corden and I will look for the boss."

Lily raised an eyebrow. "Do your words count?"

Rick, seemingly missing the implication, replied, "My words always count. I always do what I say."

"No," Lily smiled meaningfully, "I mean, since the boss isn't here, are you second in command?"