Fred became lost in thought, offering no retort. 'She's right. Our research team failed to create R10; we sought her help because she alone could, based on our findings. She succeeded, but its side effects and efficacy remain unknown.'
"I don't want to waste my breath," he said, "and you know you can't decide. Just ask your boss. I can wait, but my patience is wearing thin." Lily closed her eyes. "You know how easily I could kill myself."
Fred was speechless, his face hardening as he glared at her. He knew he was powerless. He glanced at the doctors, then, turning to leave, commanded, "Take her children away!"
One doctor followed, carrying the babies. Lily wanted to look, but gritted her teeth, stopping herself. 'Even if I see them, nothing will change. Saving myself and my babies is what matters now.'
The remaining doctor hesitantly reached for her blanket. Lily removed it. "Can you look at my wound? I think it reopened."
He sighed helplessly, examining the bleeding wound. After cleaning it, he reclosed it. "Why are you doing this to yourself?"
"You should know," Lily said calmly, feeling a slight sting. "You're a doctor. You know what they're up to, right?" The physical pain paled in comparison to her inner turmoil. She felt utterly hopeless, knowing Alexander was likely struggling outside, while she remained unaware of the organization's mastermind. 'It's infuriating not knowing my enemy!'
The doctor treated her wound silently. Lily expected no response; she knew the place was likely under surveillance. Near the end, he straightened, saying casually, "I'm sure your efforts will pay off eventually, but you must take care of yourself."
Lily was stunned.