CHAPTER SIXTY-NINE - RETURN TO THE STRIP

After an hour of searching, they regrouped near the entrance, all wearing identical expressions of frustration. "Nothing," Emily said, shaking her head. "It's like she's a ghost." Cassius ran a hand through his hair, a rare display of vulnerability. "We need to regroup. Let's head back to the hotel and come up with a new plan." As they made their way back to their hotel, Mara couldn't shake the feeling that they were missing something crucial. Clarissa was out there somewhere, and they were no closer to finding her than when they started. Back at the hotel, the group gathered in Mara's room, exhaustion evident on everyone's faces. "We need professional help," Cassius said, breaking the silence. "I'm going to call in a private detective I know. He specializes in missing persons cases." The others nodded in agreement, too tired to argue. Cassius stepped out to make the call, leaving the rest of the group to ponder their next move. "What if..." Tiffany began hesitantly, "what if Cl