Anastasia treated her aunt and uncle as family. She never blamed them for Rhea's poisoning, knowing they were unaware. Maria had devoted years to searching for a cure for Anastasia. While Maria had ulterior motives, Anastasia understood the inherent selfishness in human nature. Despite their flaws, Maria and Fabian remained her family.

However, Maria's words shattered Anastasia's affection. Instead of acknowledging Rhea's wrongdoing, Maria blamed everything on Cameron and Anastasia. Disappointed, Anastasia replied, "I said what I needed to say. Take good care of yourself." She started to leave, but Maria's stunned reaction revealed her surprise at Anastasia's lack of remorse or distress.

"You can't go!" Maria exclaimed, grabbing Anastasia's arm. "Tasia, only you can save them now. What about your uncle? He hasn't broken any laws, right?"

Anastasia countered, "He's in charge of the research center where illegal experiments were conducted. How could you say he hasn't broken any laws?" Though Anastasia's knowledge came solely from her father, Fabian's partial responsibility was undeniable.

"What illegal experiments are you talking about? You're not trying to frame your uncle, are you?" Maria knew little about Rhea's work, as Rhea had forbidden her mother from inquiring. After Rhea's faked death and return, Maria, fearing another separation from her daughter, complied with Rhea's every request. Now, Anastasia's words seemed nonsensical.

"Do you honestly think I have much influence?" Anastasia asked with a bitter smile, aware of her aunt's inherent distrust. Gently freeing herself, she said, "You know what you did. You and Rhea can deny it, but we all know what happened." Pausing, she added, "As for you helping Rhea hold my father captive, he says he'll let it slide. But that's all he can do."

Maria's pallor intensified at this revelation. She no longer attempted to stop Anastasia, watching her niece depart in silence.