Alina and Lizzy found Marcus with his friends inside the school compound, lounging in their favorite spot under the large oak tree. The boys were in high spirits, laughing and joking, enjoying the midday break.
"Thank goodness you guys are here! We've been looking for you all over the school," Alina said.
Marcus looked up, a casual grin spreading across his face. "Why, do you miss me?" he teased.
Alina rolled her eyes playfully.
"Actually, we came to ask you boys something," Lizzy interjected, her tone more serious.
"What is it?" Joe responded, leaning back against the tree trunk.
"Have you seen Evan or Kendra today in school?" Lizzy asked, her brow furrowed with concern.
Zack snorted, his laugh dismissive. "What, how should we know what those two are up to? They're probably scheming in some room right now."