Alexander remained silent while Ross and Mike shook their heads, deeming their suspicions unlikely. After some consideration, Alexander asked, "Is it possible Dom went to treat Lily?" The four men considered it highly probable.

Ross offered his opinion: "Fred looked healthy when I left. My mother has her own doctors; I doubt Fred would seek help for her. It makes more sense if Dominic treated his favorite student." The others nodded in agreement.

Mike remained puzzled. "But Lily has always been healthy and self-sufficient. How did she suddenly fall ill? Even if she were, the embassy has excellent doctors. Why would Fred risk approaching Dominic?"

He sighed. "We won't find out unless we get inside." The deeper they delved, the more troubled and bewildered they became. If they were right, Lily must be seriously ill; otherwise, Fred would never have risked asking Dominic for help. They anxiously wondered about her condition.

At the embassy, Fred led Dominic to a room upon his arrival. As the door opened, a roomful of doctors in white coats turned to look at him. Seeing Fred, they leaped to their feet, respectfully addressing him as "Your Grace."

The Duke nodded. "How is she?"

No one answered. The equipment beeped, and Lily lay motionless on the bed.

"Get out," Fred commanded, waving a dismissive hand.

They quickly obeyed, closing the door behind them. Only Fred, his bodyguard, and Dominic remained. Dominic's gaze had been fixed on Lily since entering. Fred, seeing this, knew his guess had been correct.

He sneered. "I believe you two haven't seen each other in some time. I'll give you a moment to catch up." He stepped aside, watching as Dominic remained frozen for a moment before slowly approaching the bed.