"Take a moment to think about where Freddy might go—like the places he usually loves going or his close friends' houses," Larissa suggested. "By the way, have you called the police? They will take care of this, won't they?"

"I haven't contacted the police yet," Allen said. "I've also just received the news from the nanny a while ago. She thought Freddy had sneakily gone out to play. But when she couldn't find him after looking for him around the school, she panicked.

"I'm heading to Freddy's favorite spots now. Larissa, can you help to keep an eye out too? Freddy loves and trusts you the most. If he runs away from home, it's very likely that he will go to you. Moreover ..." He trailed off, seemingly hesitating to continue speaking.

"What?" Larissa asked.

"Something has been off with him since he received the cold shoulder from you. He has gotten a lot quieter than before. I'm worried that he might be suffering from depression."

That was a bolt out of the blue. Larissa was stunne