"What about Lily?" Mike asked, worried. He felt ashamed for not knowing her whereabouts, especially given her dangerous situation and his promise to Alexander to protect her. "What else can you do besides return to the research facility?" Alexander pressed. "Are you able to locate and rescue her?"

Mike was stumped. "I..."

Alexander said grimly, "I'll find her. Return to the research facility immediately and ensure nothing harmful escapes!" He was angry, but knew it wouldn't help. What matters most is solving this problem. There's no use losing my temper.

Mike guiltily grunted his assent, then remembered something. "Oh, yeah! Has Edward returned yet?"

"Edward?" Alexander was puzzled.

Mike, realizing Alexander's unfamiliarity with the situation, briefly mentioned his encounter with Edward at the facility, avoiding unnecessary details. It wasn't the time for small talk.

Alexander replied, "I see. Go back now. I'll have my men search for Lily. Inform me of anything you hear. Let's stay in touch."

"Sure!" Mike responded, feeling remorseful but knowing apologies were pointless. He resolved to complete his task efficiently and avoid further mistakes.

After hanging up, Alexander pondered briefly, then grabbed his jacket and went to see his son. Galen was sitting on a small chair on the balcony, playing with Lego bricks. Alexander, aware of his son's fondness for them, had ensured a plentiful supply to keep him entertained. He paused, noticing Galen's absorption in his building.

After several minutes, Galen finished assembling a piece and proudly displayed it. "Daddy, look!"

Alexander examined it carefully and nodded. "You got all the details right very quickly. Well done!"

Pleased by his father's praise, Galen smiled happily. His smile faltered, however, at the sight of the jacket draped over his father's arm. "Are you leaving, Daddy?"

My son is indeed very observant, Alexander mused. He nodded. "Yes, Daddy has to go out for a while."

"Without me again?" Galen asked, understanding dawning in his eyes.

Alexander felt a pang of helplessness, but also a smile tugged at his lips. Galen's perceptiveness made further explanation unnecessary. After a moment's hesitation, he asked, "Yes, Daddy has some important work to do. Will you be alright here by yourself?"

He wasn't sure it was the right decision. The situation at home wasn't ideal either. Dominic's symptoms are recurring, Austin's overwhelmed, and with the servants unwell, I doubt they can care for Galen.

After considering this, he changed his mind. "How about I take you to your great-grandmother's house?"