Chapter 40
Three days before the seminar, Ethan felt rested and decided to explore San Diego. He wanted to see the city's beauty and perhaps find some peace amid his ongoing search for answers.
His first stop was the hotel management office. Ethan hoped that reviewing the security footage from five years ago might provide some clue about James's last days. However, the manager informed him that the CCTV system had been damaged during that period, and the employee responsible for it had since resigned. Disappointed but not deterred, Ethan thanked the manager and left.
Seeking solace, Ethan visited Balboa Park, a vast urban park known for its gardens and walking paths. He strolled through the park, taking in the serene environment, hoping it would help clear his mind. The beauty of the park provided a temporary escape from his worries.
Later, he made his way to La Jolla Shores, a popular beach in San Diego. The sound of the waves and the sight of the vast ocean offered a calming effect. Ethan sat on the sand, watching the horizon, reflecting on his journey and the challenges ahead. At the beach, a child kicked his ball to his direction, nearly missing his eyes. The boy ran up to him,"I'm sorry sir, can I have my ball back?" Paying no mind to the boy, he said, " sure" and handed the ball back to the boy and said goodbye.
As the sun began to set, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, Ethan felt a renewed sense of determination. He knew the path to uncovering the truth would be difficult, but moments like these reminded him of the importance of persistence and hope.
After a day of exploring San Diego, Ethan returned to his hotel, feeling a mix of exhaustion and liberation. Determined to embrace his newfound freedom, he decided to indulge in a hearty meal, setting aside his worries for the evening.
He chose to dine at The Shores Restaurant, located within the hotel, known for its beachside views and California Baja-inspired menu.
As he savored each bite, Ethan allowed himself to be present in the moment, appreciating the flavors and the ambiance. For the first time in a long while, he felt a sense of normalcy, free from the burdens that had weighed him down.
Later, in the solitude of his room, the reality of his quest resurfaced. He sat by the window, gazing at the city lights, and whispered, "James, I miss you so much. God knows I've tried to find out what happened to you. Please, send me help so you can rest well, buddy."
The room remained silent, but Ethan felt a subtle shift within himself—a glimmer of hope that perhaps his plea had been heard. With a renewed sense of determination, he resolved to continue his search, trusting that guidance would come when he needed it most.