"But it's quite risky for you to leave here. What if—"

Before Austin could finish, Alexander interrupted, "How much longer will the world be safe?"

Austin was speechless.

Alexander said solemnly, "The situation is changing daily. Besides, even Dominic believes symbiotes may not be the cause, and we're unsure of the pathogen's nature. However, more unknown pathogens will spread if we don't solve this. Then the situation will become far harder to manage!"

Austin, noticing Alexander's somber expression, lowered his hands. He knew the organization's research extended beyond a single pathogen; the variety and complexity of their biological weapons were beyond his comprehension. He was shocked by their experiments and aware that Alexander possessed far more information.

"I know you're under immense pressure. We all are," Alexander said, gently patting Austin's shoulder.

"Okay, I won't stop you, but please minimize contact with others," Austin said seriously, still worried as the source of the disease. The guilt, whether it stemmed from a virus, symbiote, or something unknown, was a torment exceeding any physical pain. 'The organization truly knows how to torture us, physically and mentally!' he thought.

"I will," Alexander replied, understanding Austin's concerns.

"Also..." Austin began, but was interrupted. "Don't worry," Austin continued. "I'll take good care of Galen. I may lack experience with children, but I believe I can manage. Just leave him and Dominic to me."

Alexander nodded. "I'll leave some men outside. Tell them if you need anything."

Austin chuckled. "Hey, I'm not a three-year-old. I know what to do. Just relax and go."

Alexander, amused by his own unusual hesitancy, ceased his instructions. He hadn't faced such a predicament before, and neither had anyone he knew.

"Take care," he said, hurrying away.

A bodyguard greeted him as he exited the estate.

"Take me to the Rollins' residence," Alexander instructed. Leaning back in the car, he gazed at the passing scenery, feeling as if he'd been dreaming. His initial visit to take Galen home had unexpectedly stretched into days filled with immense risk. Those few days felt like years, and even leaving the estate left him feeling overwhelmed rather than relieved.