Alexander's delayed response set Mike's mind racing. "Alex, I'm guessing it's the medicine the organization used in Austin." The mention of Austin snapped Alexander back to attention. "What medicine?"

"The virus," Mike said, his voice low, taking a deep breath. "The organization created many versions; you're aware of that. There are too many types, and I don't know their specific purposes. When Austin was here, they injected him—the virus—and his body inflated at an alarming rate. His muscles overgrew; I thought he'd explode." Alexander nodded, listening. He knew this, but it was only surface-level information.

"He survived, though. Later, wanting to help—he was innocent, forcibly involved—I found an opportunity while we were relocating, and I let him go," Mike continued. "The rest is history. That opportunity was a loophole the organization created. As for their ultimate goal… I have no idea."

"So, they let him go to spread the virus after injecting him?" Alexander asked.

Mike's assumptions weren't certainties. However, Alexander's words confirmed he was on the right track. Alexander nodded, finding the theory plausible, but this didn't absolve Mike of suspicion.

What if Mike knew all along and is acting? Broken trust is hard to repair.

As if sensing Alexander's thoughts, Mike added anxiously, "Alex, I have no reason to lie. You know why I'm here. Do you honestly think I'd participate in something that would destroy humankind? If you can save Nick, I… I'd even die if you asked!"

"Why would I want to take your life?" Alexander replied softly. "Okay, I understand."

A moment later, he asked, "How is Lily…?"

"She's safe. They need her intelligence here now. You should trust her," Mike replied swiftly.

Alexander trusted Lily, but his worry remained. Noticing Alexander's impending departure, Mike urged, "Alex, about Nick…"

"Don't worry. I've been searching for Nick and will do everything I can to save him," Alexander reassured him. "I'm doing this for the child. Even if you hadn't asked, I'd do everything to save him."

Relief washed over Mike. He still trusted Alexander and hadn't known Nick's whereabouts before. But they now had leads; that was the best news.

After hanging up, Alexander sighed. Turning, he saw Galen awake, silently watching him. The sight pained Alexander. He went to Galen's bedside and sat down. "You're awake?" he asked softly.

"Daddy, when did you get here?" Galen asked, his voice slightly hoarse, yet retaining a childlike charm.

"I just arrived," Alexander chuckled.