The husband and wife stared, stunned, at Alexander. "What did you say?" they asked simultaneously.

"It's true," Alexander nodded. He knew he had to tell them sooner or later. "Alex, I know I'm infected with the virus from the lab—it even controlled my mind. Though I regained consciousness, I knew I couldn't live long. Besides, Mrs. Russell took my pulse; she knew—"

Edward, thinking Alexander was trying to comfort him, began to explain what he knew, hoping to prevent Alexander from offering false hope to Olivia.

Alexander interrupted. "Lily told me."

"Mrs. Russell?"

"Lily?"

Edward and Olivia spoke in surprise.

Alexander nodded. "According to Lily, the virus can damage your organs, but your condition isn't hopeless. She plans to treat you upon her return. It's just..." He paused. "You must be patient and wait for her. That's why you shouldn't risk your life again. Stay here and recuperate until Lily returns, all right?"

Alexander wanted to instill hope in Edward, to prevent him from recklessly endangering himself.

"Alex, you're not trying to cheer me up, are you? I can handle the truth. I—"

Alexander glared. "When did you become so wishy-washy? Do I need to cheer you up? What good would that do? If we can't cure you, I'll tell you to your face, got it? Since you have a chance at life, cherish it and don't unnecessarily risk it. No one's life is dispensable; yours matters most to your child and Olivia. Do you understand?" Alexander's voice was fierce, his expression solemn, reminiscent of his commanding demeanor.

Tears welled in Edward's eyes. He nodded, his voice husky. "I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking straight. Still, I'd like to—"

Alexander cut him off. "Enough! I'm in charge, all right? Just do as I say. Or do you plan on defying me?"

"I wouldn't dare, sir!" Edward said earnestly.

"Then I order you to go home and take care of your wife and child, got it? Just wait for Lily to return." Alexander's last words were nearly clipped.

No one worried more about Lily's safety than Alexander, but he knew he couldn't rescue her without first taking the necessary precautions.