Stray

“…Did you tell her anything?” Nemo took a step back and asked Oliver in a low voice. This development was completely different from what he thought. Judging from Mrs. Edwards’ previous reaction, he thought she would blame or at least vent her dissatisfaction first. He didn’t think he was mistaken in the way that the old woman looked at her son; it was the same deep love he had once received from Old Patrick.

“Not outright,” Oliver whispered. “There were hints from Cahill that probably made her finally reach this point. We both agreed that she wasn’t under his control. Her reaction was too fast and natural. People controlled by illusions don’t have that kind of fast reaction speed.”

Nemo turned to look at Mrs. Edwards. She stood proudly on the green and black stone steps and her exquisite clothing was shining in the dark sewers. Her face was expressionless, and her chest fluctuated slightly with her breathing. Nemo had a strange feeling that her life was leaving that satin wrapped overly aging body at an abnormal speed.

Adrian was silent for a few seconds, or minutes. His military-like calmness disappeared for a moment.

“Yes,” he said.

The old woman didn’t cry. Her expression even looked a bit indifferent, but tears silently dripped along her deep wrinkles. Mrs. Edwards’ thin body trembled slightly and finally let out a suppressed choking sound. That simple affirmation was like a sentence of judgement.

“My stupid, useless son has caused you trouble.” She arched her back, bent down and made a deep bow. “I’m very sorry, child.”

“This is my own choice,” Adrian whispered. “You don’t need to apologize… I didn’t have time to save him.”

“No.” The old woman tried to suppress her sobs as she spoke slowly. “Cahill did the wrong thing. The mistake is his and has nothing to do with you. I can even guess what that child’s wish was.”