?<strong>Chapter 658:</strong>


    Ken’s expression darkened. “Exactly. It’s a ruse to throw off outsiders. When we arrived on the first floor, the guards we saw were just standard security, and we assumed that all the guards in this building were the same, wearing security uniforms. As for those inb coats, some are real researchers, while the others are…”


    “Guards in disguise, trying to let our guard down. They will eliminate anyone trying to pry into the secrets of this research institute.”


    A sense of unease gnawed at Allison. This ce was far moreplex and dangerous than she’d first realized.


    They exchanged what they had learned so far, but then Allison’s thoughts turned to Lilian.


    “I think she’s being held in theb on this floor. I’ve got the chip for the central control, so we can use it to get inside.”


    Ken’s brow furrowed. “The iron door to theb is nothingpared to what’s behind it. There’s a long corridor, filled with infrared sensors, gas defense systems… It’s a nightmare.”


    He paused, his voice low. “Only a key isn’t enough. We need high-level identity verification to get through.”


    Allison’s mind raced. There had to be another way. Then, an idea struck her.


    “We don’t necessarily need the high-level clearance. Rowan’s the surveince manager. He must have ess. We can make use of him.”


    gα?ησν????s??оm, where stories thrive


    She pulled out a hidden earpiece from her pocket. “This ce is even more dangerous than we thought. Wear this so we can stay in contact.”


    Ken took the earpiece from her, his fingers brushing against hers briefly before he nodded. “Alright.”


    Instead of using the earpiece himself, he took a moment to help her put it on, his touch gentle yet firm.


    “Allison, whatever happens, especially if you find yourself in a tight spot, I want you to take advantage of me without hesitation.”


    Ken’s long fingers finally rested on her earlobe.


    “Don’t feel burdened by it,” he continued, his voice barely above a whisper. “This is what I should be doing for you.”


    After Ken walked away, Allison stood there, deep in thought, weighing her next move when she heard the sound of footsteps approaching from outside. The storage room was tucked away, even more secluded than the manager’s office. Anyone making their way this far was most likely heading straight for her.


    She decided to open the door, and as expected, Rowan appeared, striding toward her with a determined pace.


    “Almost slipped away earlier, didn’t you?” Rowan said, his eyes narrowing as he came closer.


    Allison gave him an innocent look. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”


    Rowan closed the distance between them, his smile turning cold. “Hands. Open them.”


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