"..."
"Besides, I was never interested in this anyway, so it was only right that I gave it to you."
"...Where are you now?" Maple Swallow's expression darkened. "I'm coming right over, don't go anywhere."
*
Night had completely fallen.
Inside the spacious villa hall, Maple Swallow's expression had been tense ever since he arrived.
The new ashtray had already accumulated a thick layer of ash, and the cigarette box was down to its last cigarette.
"Does Dad know?"
He asked.
"What's the point in telling him, with his health how it is now, telling him wouldn't make any difference, would it?"
Maple Swallow looked up at him, Trenton Smith's expression was nonchalant and composed, that of someone who seemed detached and indifferent.
He didn't know whether he hoped Trenton would be more concerned for him or feel more at ease.
Maple Swallow furrowed his brows and again bowed his head deeply in thought while smoking furiously.