Alexander added, "Rhea's extremely cunning, and her words are dubious. However, not everything she says is false."

"Aren't you stating the obvious?" Mike stopped and gazed after Alexander.

The latter stopped and turned. "But I know someone who might be able to tell if she's speaking the truth."

Mike was surprised. Alexander's efficiency was evident as he quickly fetched Austin, who had been assisting Dr. Blanc with his research. Although only a few days had passed, Austin had lost considerable weight and had dark circles under his eyes. Still, he seemed unusually spirited and confident.

"Did you have lunch yet?" Austin asked before Mike could even offer to lead him to Rhea.

Taken aback, Mike stammered, "N-No, not yet."

"Then let's eat. I'm starving!" Austin declared, striding inside.

Mike was dumbfounded. He looked at Alexander, who offered no objection. Mike then chased after Austin, asking, "Aren't you supposed to see Rhea first to determine if she's lying about the virus?"

He assumed Alexander hadn't informed Austin, leading Austin to believe he was there simply for lunch.

"There's no hurry," Austin said, checking his watch. "We need energy; we should eat when it's time. Our organs function according to our biological clock. If we don't follow it—"

"Okay! Let's eat!" Mike interrupted.

Damn, why'd he become so talkative after just a few days?

The three shared four dishes in silence. Alexander rarely spoke during meals, and Mike was preoccupied with observing Austin, wanting to speak but unsure how to begin. Austin, however, thoroughly enjoyed the meal, consuming nearly half the dishes. Afterward, he wiped his mouth and declared, "The food is amazing! Much better than the department cafeteria. I finally had a satisfying meal after so long."

"Since you're full, let's go!" Mike said eagerly, putting down his utensils.

Austin checked his watch again. "We've got time."

He rose, went to the living room, and lay on the sofa. "We should take a nap after lunch."

"Hey, you..." Mike saw Austin closing his eyes and impatiently went to rouse him. "Alex, look at him! Will he help us or not?! Do you think we're on vacation?"

He tried pulling Austin up, but the latter seemed asleep and too heavy to lift.

"Alex, come help me!" Mike said, struggling and huffing.

Alexander approached and calmly observed. "Let him rest for a while."