Generally speaking, locating someone was usually possible with sufficient connections and resources. However, exceptions existed. In such cases, a substantial international reward would be the solution.

"I can't find him," Mike repeated, shaking his head. Despair filled his eyes. "Otherwise, why would I be so easily manipulated?"

Alexander remained silent. Knowing Mike for years, he knew Mike wouldn't succumb to manipulation. His success in business, and their partnership, proved that. Mike's current state indicated he'd exhausted all options and was now helpless, controlled by someone.

Lily chewed her lip. Seeing her hesitation, Alexander gently patted her hand. "Say what's on your mind."

Hesitantly, she asked, "Have you considered that Nick might no longer…" She couldn't finish, the thought unacceptable even to her, let alone Mike, Nick's father.

Alexander's heart pounded. Impossible, he thought, but if Nick were alive, why no trace? It can't be!

"No, he's alive. He must be!" Mike insisted, his voice firm despite his misery. Mentioning his son always brought out this unwavering certainty.

"I can call my son occasionally; I always find a way to make him do or say something specific. I'd know if they'd pre-recorded the videos. It's impossible! He's alive, somewhere," he explained.

Lily breathed a sigh of relief.

"Can you glean any clues about his location from the videos?" Alexander asked thoughtfully.

Mike frowned. "I've tried, but they're too cautious. During video calls, Nick is always in an empty, soundproof room. It seems like a basement or warehouse. I can't pinpoint the location. It's always quiet, and the calls are short. They end them abruptly, maybe fearing I'll trace the signal."

"When will you talk to your son again?" Lily asked.

"I don't know," Mike replied, his helplessness evident. He spread his hands. It seemed unbelievable, but he wasn't lying. The situation was entirely controlled by the organization; he was powerless.

"I only speak briefly when they allow it. They'll torture my son if I disobey." Agitation flared. He turned to Alexander. "You're a father, too. Imagine someone kidnapping and torturing Galen to threaten you. What would you do?"

Alexander remained silent.

"I have no choice," Mike said, his voice filled with pain. The torment of the past months was consuming him; he bore the burden alone.