Chapter 45: Spy

Feng Yan and Du Fan exited the dimly lit room where Du Fan's father lay in a state of delicate recovery. The atmosphere in the house felt heavy, and Feng Yan's serious demeanor only added to the gravity of the situation. As they walked down the hallway, Feng Yan's silence spoke volumes, and Du Fan's concern grew. He knew that whatever discussion awaited them in his study was of utmost importance.

Once they reached the study, Du Fan opened the door and gestured for Feng Yan to enter. The room was lined with bookshelves, filled with an array of old volumes and scrolls. A large mahogany desk sat in the center, covered in papers and ledgers. Feng Yan took a seat at the desk, her posture rigid and her expression serious.

Du Fan sat opposite her, his face a mix of curiosity and apprehension. The weight of her previous words about his father's condition still lingered heavily in his mind. As Feng Yan began to speak, her voice was low and deliberate.

"Du Fan," she said, "you must be very cautious. It is crucial that you do not reveal your father's health condition to anyone in the house, including your mother."

Du Fan's eyes widened in shock. "What do you mean? Why should I keep this a secret?"

Feng Yan's gaze was unwavering. "If your father was poisoned in your home, it means there is a spy among your household staff. If word gets out that he is recovering, it could lead to more severe problems. The person responsible might act to ensure that the poison's effects are irreversible, or they could attempt to sabotage his recovery."

Du Fan's shock turned into a deep frown as he processed her words. The implication of a spy in the household was both terrifying and sobering. Feng Yan continued, her tone calm but firm.

"You need to keep this situation a secret," she advised. "Pretend that your father is still in a coma. This will prevent the spy from taking any drastic actions. Meanwhile, you should focus on gathering evidence against whoever is responsible. Identify the spy and any accomplices in your household."

Du Fan's mind raced, grappling with the gravity of her advice. He had been so focused on his father's immediate health that he hadn't considered the broader implications of the poisoning. Feng Yan's reasoning was sound, and her strategic thinking impressed him deeply.

A mix of gratitude and admiration filled Du Fan. He knew that Feng Yan's advice was not just about saving his father's life but also about protecting his entire family from further harm. The complexity of the situation made him appreciate her even more.

"Thank you, Feng Yan," Du Fan said earnestly, his voice filled with emotion. "Your help means more to me than I can express. I am deeply grateful for everything you've done. I promise you that I will follow your instructions and keep this secret. I will also do everything in my power to find out who did this to my family."

Feng Yan nodded, her expression softening slightly. "Good. Make sure you act quickly and carefully. The sooner you uncover the truth, the better."

Du Fan's eyes were filled with resolve. "I will. And please, if there is anything you need in the future, do not hesitate to ask. I vow to support you in any way I can."

Feng Yan's eyes met his with a sense of understanding. "Thank you, Du Fan. I appreciate your trust and willingness to help."

As Feng Yan stood to leave, Du Fan followed her to the door. His gratitude was evident in his every movement, and he watched as she left the study. The weight of the situation had forged a bond between them, a connection built on trust and mutual respect.

Du Fan silently vowed to himself that he would not only uncover the truth behind his father's poisoning but also protect Feng Yan as she had protected him. He had gained a sworn sister in her, and he intended to honor that bond with unwavering loyalty.

With Feng Yan's departure, Du Fan turned back to the study, his mind already strategizing the next steps. The challenges ahead were daunting, but with Feng Yan's guidance and his own resolve, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The road to uncovering the spy and ensuring his family's safety was just beginning, and he was determined to see it through to the end.