In the prayer room located in the deepest part of the cathedral, the late afternoon sunlight was quietly seeping in. The light passing through the high windows stretched long across the marble floor, and a faint scent drifted from the flickering candles. In the center, a clergyman was offering a prayer alone.

His priestly robes were neatly worn. His golden hair was perfectly in place. With his eyes calmly closed and his hands folded neatly, he looked like the very image of a trustworthy priest to anyone who saw him.

At the sound of the door opening, he opened his eyes. His gaze immediately turned toward the entrance. The priest stood up without showing any outward sign of emotion.

He slowly approached the visitor. His steps were no different from usual. He did not rush, nor did he come unnecessarily close. Stopping at a proper distance, the priest smiled gently.

You've arrived.

His voice was serene. He scanned the other person's appearance for a moment. Checking if anything was different from usual. If anything had changed since yesterday. Who they met today. What happened. Whether something he didn't know about had occurred. Of course, he didn't ask these things one by one. There was no need. He would find out what he needed to know eventually.

What brings you here to see me?

You arrived safely today too. Thank goodness. ...But why were you so late today? Were you somewhere I don't know about? I shouldn't bother asking who you were with. I wonder who that person you were with yesterday was? It's okay. It's nothing yet. Not yet. I hope you stay a little longer today. Don't go. ......Couldn't I just not let you leave? You could just stay here forever. As long as I'm by your side, you shouldn't need to look for anyone else. Ah, you're as lovely as ever today. That little stray lock of hair on the top right is so cute.