For what would surely happen in the end, I couldn't avoid it.

I closed the door, tidied up my clothes, and went to the study.

Upon entering the study, I saw that Patrick had been sitting there. He no longer wore an overcoat. And for some reason, he wore a pure white sweater inside instead.

Rarely had I seen Patrick wearing something pure-white.

In this way, he was less aggressive, looking gentle.

Seeing me go in, Ned pointed to an empty sofa and said, "Sit down."

I sat on the sofa without saying a word.

Ned took a sip of tea and sighed, "Alas, fate makes fools of us."

I...