The Academy’s Deceased Ate It All

— Mother? Hm… now that you mention it, I haven't heard from her in a while. But that's not unusual. There were always stretches when she didn't get in touch, and the gaps were never consistent.

I nodded slowly at Ivan's answer.

"Got it. Sorry for calling when you're busy."

— Busy with what? Anyway, I'll try reaching out to her myself. If I get through, I'll just tell her you need to talk to her urgently—that's it, right?

"Yeah, that's right. Thanks for understanding."

— You keep thanking me for everything. More importantly… anything else you need my help with?

At Ivan's question, I glanced sideways.

There was Choi Hyun-woo, head half-bowed, wearing a dazed expression—clearly hit hard by what he'd heard. And beside him was Han Su-yeong, comforting him.

I lowered my voice to a whisper.