"Why didn't you tell me?" Ross asked. "So that's why you want to continue the experiment?"

Yasmin nodded. "At first, I thought I was dying. I even considered choosing a successor among your brothers. But then, one day, Fred told me he'd found a way to achieve immortality, and we could set up a lab to research it."

Her eyes lit up. She remembered it was a cloudy, depressing day, and her body ached. As pain and the fear of death intensified, Fred appeared with his good news.

She was initially skeptical, but Fred claimed the experiment had worked before, showing her an ancient text filled with strange symbols. He said experts had translated it, confirming a formula for immortality. He painted a vivid picture of success, and she was captivated. The sun broke through the clouds, and everything seemed bright. From that day on, her despair lifted. She eagerly anticipated the experiment and gave Fred everything he needed—access, resources, everything.

She later discovered Fred had conducted other experiments behind her back, committing terrible acts in her name. Yet, for the experiment's sake, she tolerated his behavior, secretly growing wary but never anticipating such a betrayal. His actions were unforgivable.

Yasmin would have overlooked his pursuit of wealth or power, but his desire was his own immortality. He even planned to use her as a test subject.

"Mom, have you considered the experiment might be impossible? Throughout history—"

Yasmin interrupted, "Many have failed and died trying, haven't they?"

Ross remained silent.

Yasmin's yearning was barely concealed. "Yes, many have died, and I might too. But why can't I be the one to succeed?" Ross knew persuasion was futile. "All right," he conceded, "even if you refuse to stop, what about those toxins and viruses? What's their connection to immortality?"

Yasmin straightened, appearing indifferent. "That was Fred's doing. It had nothing to do with me."

"Oh, really? You knew what he was doing and never stopped him. How can you say it had nothing to do with you?" Ross exclaimed, agitated.