"The bedroom?" Lily eyed the doctor warily. He stood with a cold expression. "Please be assured. We are professionals. Two nurses will be present. If you're concerned, we can examine you here, but…"

He glanced toward the ceiling, subtly indicating surveillance cameras.

"I don't mind," Lily said, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "I don't need your prenatal check-ups. Let your boss see me."

"I'm sorry, I can't do that," the doctor shrugged. "Please cooperate."

"What if I refuse?" Lily sneered. "Can you force me?"

The doctor shook his head. "I can't, Ms. Christian, but remember, it's not just me. This is a routine gynecological examination; nothing uncomfortable." He glanced toward the partially open door, revealing guards. They hadn't entered, but their alertness was palpable. She knew they'd react to any sudden movement.

'I can't die, not now.'

After a moment, Lily stared intently at the doctor, then turned toward the bedroom. "Since you're not afraid, why should I be? Come in!"

She entered, her pregnant belly prominent, followed by the doctor and nurses. They closed the door. "Please lie on the bed," the doctor instructed.

Lily stood, studying him and the two expressionless nurses before complying. One hand rested on her belly; the other, fingers subtly flexing, hung at her side, poised to react.

The doctor calmly placed his kit on the table, directing the nurses. As he bent down, Lily's fingers tensed, but he didn't react. He looked into her eyes. "Ms. Christian, relax. Injections are painful, but not as bitter as medicine."

Lily's surprise was evident. He acted as if this was a simple comfort. Turning to the nurses, he said, "Bring it."

A nurse presented a syringe. Lily's pupils constricted. "What's that? I thought this was an examination. Why an injection?"

"A nutrient injection. We're concerned about your nutrition since your arrival," the doctor explained. "Relax."

But Lily couldn't comply. "I don't need it!"

"As I said, Ms. Christian, injections are painful, but less bitter than medicine. Endure it; things will improve." He held her arm. "You can't leave, so cooperate."

Lily's palm twitched, her fingers relaxing slightly under his steady gaze. He quietly inserted the needle. As the medicine flowed, her eyelids grew heavy, then closed.