8

When your eyes meet theirs, it sends your thoughts into a spin. After what just happened with Robin, you had almost forgotten the short conversation you overheard before—but now it all comes rushing back.

Not only did Eliot have a grandchild—but now you know that grandchild was Marlowe. You had no idea. You almost wonder why Marlowe never mentioned it.

But as that's playing on your mind, you remember that you didn't see Marlowe at Eliot's birthday party either—and suddenly you wonder whether they might have had a reason they wouldn't have wanted to tell you.

Marlowe only hesitates a short moment before coming towards you across the foyer. When they reach you, they smile almost in spite of themself; it's clear that, no matter what else is happening, they're still happy to see you.

But it's only a brief flicker of a smile. When they speak at last, it's clear that there's just too much else occupying their mind.

"Hi, Huknock."

Their voice is quiet, as if they don't want it to echo on the cold marble. With just the two of you here, any sound is a little too loud.

A few moments later, Marlowe asks how you are, and you talk about not much for a while. When you tell them why you were here with Robin in the first place, they react with surprise.

"Oh, wow—the archives? I've been there a couple of times, but I never knew they were planning on closing them down. But I guess it doesn't matter now, if they're staying open."

They go quiet for a moment, and their eyes drift away from you—back towards the hallway they just came out of.

"I'm—I'm actually here because…"

They swallow, still not looking right at you.