Anastasia's apprehension was evident, and Alexander noticed immediately. He surveyed the house; surveillance cameras weren't necessary, in his experience. However, Anastasia's reaction was unusual. He frowned, shut the door, and asked, "What's wrong? If you can't tell me here, we'll go somewhere else. You need to tell me what's happening."

He paused, then added, "You can't keep this from me."

Anastasia pursed her lips, as if stifling a cry. She wiped away tears. "Alex, let's talk elsewhere," she said.

"Okay," he replied. "You probably haven't eaten. Neither have I. Let's go out to eat and talk." He looked around again and escorted her out.

Anastasia remained silent during the drive, seemingly lost in thought. Alexander didn't press her, giving her space. Still, the situation was increasingly perplexing. How could Cameron disappear so suddenly? And why hadn't she told him immediately?

He noticed she was leaning against the car window, gazing silently outward.

Alexander chose a nearby country club—the food was superior, but more importantly, it offered the quiet privacy they needed. It was also under his company's name. He secured a private room and dismissed the staff after the meal was served. Instead of urging her to speak, he gestured for her to eat.

Anastasia, typically a gourmand, lacked an appetite. She picked up her utensils, then hesitated, turning to him. "Alex, I don't know where to begin."

"From the beginning," Alexander said softly, pouring her some water. "Take your time."

After drinking half her water, she appeared calmer. Taking a deep breath, she held the glass with both hands. "About two days ago, my father received a call and left in a hurry. He never came back."

"What do you mean?" Alexander asked, frowning. He found it incredible. Yet, considering recent events, it wasn't entirely unbelievable. Still, Anastasia's explanation was unclear.

"He disappeared," she explained. "I don't know where he went—no one has seen him."

"What about his bodyguards? Don't they know anything?" Alexander asked, puzzled.

Cameron always had bodyguards; his disappearance without anyone noticing seemed impossible. "He didn't have any bodyguards," Anastasia stated firmly. "That's what's so strange. I don't know who he met or where he was going, but he went alone."

"That's bizarre!" Alexander exclaimed.

"Exactly! And he never returned. He didn't say anything before leaving, so I have no idea who contacted him," Anastasia said, her grip tightening on the cup, her nervousness palpable.