Lars was parked in the parking lot of a luxury restaurant in downtown Munich.
For a moment, he remained still, hands resting on the steering wheel, the engine off this time. The interior lights of nearby cars flickered as other guests arrived. He stared at his reflection in the rearview mirror.
Maybe this was a mistake.
He knew this city too well. And the city knew him.
His disappearance months ago had made local headlines. His face had appeared in newspapers, on television segments, across digital articles. If someone recognized him now… what would he say?
That he had simply needed time away?
Lars inhaled deeply, steadying himself.
Then he stepped out of the vehicle.
The cold air struck him immediately. He adjusted his scarf tighter around his neck and closed the car door. The sound echoed slightly in the concrete structure.
He walked toward the entrance.
