Upon hearing Theodore's reaction, Eleanor's heart sank with understanding.
"I guessed so," she continued, her tone suddenly serious. "What's wrong with my younger brother? Why doesn't he answer when I call him?"
Theodore hesitated, letting out a long sigh. "It's a long story..."
Eleanor furrowed her brow, her worry deepening. "Then make it short."
Theodore took a deep breath, his face turning grim. "I don't know how to put this... I originally didn't want to inform you. This matter has nothing to do with you, after all. I didn't expect you to find out..."
Something serious must have happened to Charles! Eleanor thought as she listened to Theodore's words.
"I'm coming back right away," she said resolutely.
"You don't have to..." Theodore subconsciously tried to refuse. This wasn't a matter of pride, and the fewer people involved, the better. He had been hiding it from Eleanor all along.