World Domination System

92. Step-By-Step

Leonard slumped in his favorite armchair, his face buried in his hands, unable to shake the overwhelming feeling of despair that had consumed him since Elsie's disappearance. It had been weeks now, but the pain and uncertainty were as fresh as the day she vanished.

His mother noticed her son's sorrowful state and approached him with a soft, reassuring touch. "Leonard, my dear, what's been troubling you so much lately?" she asked, concern etched on her face.

Without looking up, Leonard confessed, "It's Elsie, Mom. I can't stop thinking about her. It's like she's just gone, and we'll never see her again. I can't bear it."

His mother settled into a nearby chair, placing a comforting hand on his shoulder. "I understand, my dear. Losing a friend, especially under such mysterious circumstances, is incredibly difficult."

"I just wish I could have done something to prevent it," Leonard muttered, his voice choking with emotion. "Maybe she wouldn't have gone missing if I had paid more atten