Once Leon had gone, Cecily slumped onto a nearby bench, the weight of the situation settling in. She stared at her hands, twisting them in her lap. "I'm sorry," she said quietly. "I didn't mean to upset anyone."
Edwin sat beside her, keeping a small distance. "You should be careful with your assumptions," he replied. "Leon's had a rough time, and I won't tolerate anyone causing him distress."
Cecily swallowed. "I understand. I didn't know... about your family. I mean, everyone hears about the Mondells, but I never made the connection."
He looked at her, his expression softening as the tension faded. "There's a lot about our family that isn't public knowledge."
She dared to meet his gaze, feeling a flicker of courage. "I just… thought you cared about him in a different way." Her voice trembled slightly. "I was… jealous."
Edwin raised an eyebrow. "Jealous?"
She nodded, biting her lip. "I know it sounds silly, but I thought you had feelings for someone else. I didn't realize how close you were because you're brothers."
Edwin's expression softened further. He reached out and gently squeezed her shoulder. "Cecily, I do care about you," he admitted. "But as an Esper, there are things I have to consider. You know that."
She looked up at him, searching his eyes. "Then why haven't you ever said anything?" she asked, her voice small.
He sighed, his hand dropping back to his side. "Because if my dedicated Guide appears one day, I don't want to risk putting you in a difficult position. It wouldn't be fair to you."
Cecily's heart sank at his words, though she appreciated his honesty. "So, you're pushing me away because of something that might happen?"
He shook his head. "Not pushing you away—just trying to protect you. There's a difference." He offered a small, sad smile. "You're not the only one who's afraid of getting hurt."