Alexander glanced at Mike and said blandly, "This isn't just any place; we can't do whatever we want here."

Mike complained, "What else can we do? We can't ask the government for help, can we?"

Alexander lowered his gaze. "Well, it's not impossible."

"Huh?"

Alexander remained silent. Dealing with the embassy was tricky, and it would be easier with Cameron. However, Cameron had instructed them to solve the problem themselves, citing inconvenience.

He mused, Someone else could enter the embassy and search openly. But first, I'll need to speak with that person.

Austin finished examining the last patient in his parents' house and sighed in relief. He'd lost considerable weight, his cheekbones more prominent. Nevertheless, his spirits were high, his eyes gleaming.

"Austin, you must be exhausted," Michelle said, wiping sweat from his forehead.

"Well, it all started because of me. I'm just glad I could help," Austin replied, taking a glass of water. "Anyway, I checked everyone's pulse, and you're all fine now. Grandpa needs more rest, though, considering his age."

"Okay," Michelle nodded. "I'll make sure of it. What about you? Would you like to move in with us? I can take better care of you. You've lost so much weight."

Austin said firmly, "No, I need to return to Uncle Dom's. I still have much to do and learn. I've realized how little I know, and how foolish I was to be so self-assured before."

Elijah told his wife, "It's good Austin wants to improve, and that Uncle Dom is willing to teach him. Just let him be."

"But—" Michelle knew her husband was right, but the thought of parting with her son was unbearable. Austin rarely visited; seeing him less often would be even harder. Before, she wouldn't have minded, but living in fear after his illness had changed her. She couldn't bear to risk losing him again.

Austin understood her apprehension and reassured her, "Don't worry, Mom. I used to be consumed by experiments, but I promise to visit often if I stay and learn from Uncle Dom. I've also decided to study herbal medicine for life; there's so much more to learn. I might travel the country to broaden my horizons, but you mustn't worry, okay?"

His words brought Michelle to tears. Austin had never spoken to her like this, growing impatient whenever she inquired about his life. She'd accepted his detachment as normal for a grown man, unable to express his feelings. She couldn't help but weep.

"I understand," Michelle said. "Just do what you're passionate about, okay? I'll support you, no matter what."