However, Alick...

Forrest sought out Alick, his plea hanging in the air.

“I need you to do me a favor."

Alick directly declined, "Regrettably, I cannot afford the time." Peering at Forrest with earnestness, Alick explained, “It's not that I'm disinclined to assist, but Camila is in some trouble..."

“But we remain uncertain of Laura. As soon as we can, we must locate her," Forrest implored, anxiety lacing his words.

Alick studied him for a fleeting moment, his gaze piercing.

“Now you comprehend the gravity of the situation? Alas, it may be too Late!" Forrest couldn't refute his own carelessness.

“Had Camila not returned and insisted on investigating Laura's matter, you would have presumed her to be in hiding, leaving this predicament unresolved. Your anxiety arrives tardily!" Alick rebuked with candor. Forrest could not contest the truth in Alick's words. "I know."

Now, he was left to rely on himself, bereft of alternatives.

Alick offered a reminder.

“I believe Divya holds the answers to everything."

Forrest's frustration seeped through his words.

“Didn't you refuse to help me?"

Alick's gaze turned icy as he glared. "You underestimate the goodwill of others."

With that, Alick wanted to depart, but a car pulled up in front of him abruptly. Stepping out of the vehicle was Divya, seemingly in search of Forrest.

Divya possessed a gentle and considerate demeanor in the presence of Forrest's friends.

"Greetings, Alick," she greeted warmly, a smile gracing her face. Alick, seasoned in the ways of the business world, saw through Divya's facade in an instant.

Maybe she should have thought harder!

Maintaining his composure, he responded with feigned affection, “Are you here for Forrest? Have you two had a disagreement? He was just venting to me. If he mistreats you, do inform me. I shall give him a piece of my mind."

“Thank you, Alick. Forrest has always been kind to me. I have no worries about him mistreating me," Divya replied, smiling.

As she spoke, her gaze shifted toward Forrest, silently boasting that even his friend was defending her.

“Excellent. I have other matters to attend to. You two may converse," Alick said before leaving.

There was so much on his plate.

That left him no time for idle chatter.

He cast a final concerned glance toward Forrest.