Chapter 625:

Later, Rylie walked to Melany’s desk and noticed her trash bin was overflowing with crumpled drafts. Only four unfinished line sketches remained on her table. Rylie glanced at them, and even as outlines, the fresh designs caught her eye. “These look good. What colors do you have in mind?”

Melany shook her head, exhaustion heavy under her eyes. “I drew these four in one night. My theme is the four seasons, but I can’t figure out how to link them together and make them shine.”

Rylie thought for a moment. “It’s simpler than you think.”

Melany tilted her head curiously.

“If you can’t picture it, go see it. You can travel anywhere you need. The company will cover the cost,” Rylie said.

“See it?” Melany asked, puzzled.

“Go witness spring in full bloom, the blaze of summer, the fiery autumn mountains, and winter’s snow. Some things you only understand when you see them with your own eyes.”

The words struck Melany like lightning. “You must be the most generous boss I’ve ever had, Rylie.” Rylie smiled softly.

After settling company affairs, she planned to dine with Kendrick that evening and went home early.

But the moment she arrived, she sensed something was wrong.

Several soldiers stood in the Owen family hall. Brad was among them, his face grave.

Her unease from the morning deepened. She hurried forward.

“What happened? Tell me.”

Silence fell as everyone turned toward her.

Marcus stepped up and took her hand gently. “This doesn’t concern you, Rylie. Go upstairs and rest. I’ll have the servant bring you some snacks.”

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But Rylie shook her head firmly, insisting on staying. “Don’t hide it from me, please. Did something happen to Felix?”

Marcus hesitated, his brows knitting together. Rylie’s gaze turned to Brad, sharp and unrelenting.

Brad finally spoke. “We just received a satellite distress signal. Felix’s mining site was struck by extreme weather. Unknown radioactive toxins have spread. The roads are blocked, the mine has mudslides and landslides, medical supplies are running out, and Felix’s gas mask has failed.”

Brock added grimly, “I checked the satellite maps. The forecast shows heavy fog like coastal mist, frost like midwinter, and thunderstorms strong enough to keep helicopters from landing. The only way is to find a spot to land outside, drive to the mountains, and hike in.”

Rylie’s chest tightened. Radioactive toxins, thin oxygen, freezing temperatures, landslides — every danger seemed aimed at Felix’s life.

Brad said with resolve, “I’ll lead a team to camp nearby and hike in to bring Felix back. Don’t worry too much.”

“You’re not trained for that terrain or those conditions,” Rylie countered. “I’ll go myself.”

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