261 Amanda's Substitute

The sky in Berlin was slowly brightening.

Lucas had been out all night searching for Amanda. When he returned, his eyes were bloodshot and filled with guilt.

Emily quickly called his assistant and helped Lucas into a room, laying him on the bed.

"I'll get him some water, Emily. Can you keep an eye on him?" the assistant said.

Emily nodded.

Judging by Lucas's appearance, he hadn't found Amanda.

He lay on the bed with his arm over his face, lips tightly shut, not saying a word.

"Lucas..."

"Emily... I failed Amanda..."

When Lucas spoke, Emily almost didn't recognize his voice.

Lucas's voice used to be loud, deep, and slightly raspy, perfect for rock music. Now, it was rough and hoarse, barely coherent.

"I failed her..."

Emily handed him some tissues. "Lucas, calm down. We need to stay strong to save Amanda."

Lucas sniffled and wiped his face with his arm. "Did you call the police?"