Alexander fell silent, wary but unafraid. Beyond the immediate threat, he'd witnessed the virus's effects in Austin, during his stay at Dominic's estate, observing the suffering of Dominic and his infected servants.

"What about Austin's family and those he contacted? Even mild cases suffered greatly, and the long-term effects are unknown," he mused. "Now Anastasia is infected." He didn't know the virus's full reach, but for now, he wasn't worried about Galen. "But what about the others?"

Rhea smirked, triumphant. She'd found his weakness, his fear.

Alexander grabbed her collar. "What's the antidote? How does the virus transmit?" he demanded. He needed to understand the virus to solve it.

"Hehehe..." Rhea laughed, tilting her head back. "Aren't you supposed to be clever? Why don't you know? Why not ask your wife? Isn't she the best? Even she can't solve this little trick, huh?"

"As I said, I'm not inferior to Lily. I haven't had a chance to shine!" A deep dissatisfaction simmered within her. Lily's presence had suppressed her, extinguishing her spirit, erasing years of praise and leaving her feeling worthless. She clung to denial. "Even Lily can't solve my virus. I'm still better than her!"

Alexander ignored Rhea's need for victory. He wanted the solution. "If you don't explain it now, I'll infect you! Perhaps then you'll remember the antidote!"

His eyes held a dangerous glint. He might carry the virus himself; otherwise, how had Anastasia been infected? Could infecting Rhea force her to cooperate? It seemed a viable plan, yet he still didn't understand the virus's transmission.

He examined his hands, recalling limited contact with Anastasia. Airborne transmission? But Rhea showed no fear. "It doesn't matter," she smirked. "I know my inventions best. I'm curious: do you know how it transmits?"

Her question stumped him. He didn't know. Her arrogant triumph fueled his anger.