CHAPTER 24: Bad news

MEREDITH:

"One of our investigations points to human traffickers. He was lured by powerful individuals who promised him wealth if he left his agency. The night he went missing, he had actually gone for a job presentation. And the culprits are well-connected, using all their resources to cover up the case. Your brother is not their only victim, but he is the only known one," he explained solemnly.

That night remains etched vividly in my mind, the memories as fresh as if they had occurred yesterday instead of months ago. A scene replayed in my thoughts, one that would never be erased, for it was also the same night Alan ended our relationship.

I could still picture Christian's happy face as he grabbed his backpack filled with his computer gear. He had been working tirelessly on a project for over six months, and he had excitedly told me about securing a presentation at another agency that would pay him handsomely, improving our lives. All I wanted was for him to be happy and live a l