Chapter 52: About Time

The innocence reflected in Bright's eyes almost made it seem as if Emma was the perpetrator in this unfolding drama.

"Why did you discard it?" Emma questioned persistently, a sense of frustration mingling with her curiosity as she sought answers from the enigmatic figure before her.

"Why are you so convinced that I disposed of it?" Bright inquired, their voice maintaining a composed and inquisitive tone.

"You're the only one who knew where I kept it, and I sensed a twinge of jealousy in your eyes when I mentioned Theodore bringing me that pen as a souvenir from his trip abroad," Emma explained, a blend of accusation and frustration in her words.

"Is that the case? Are you absolutely certain you didn't misplace it somewhere? And, while we're at it, what exactly is your relationship with Theodore that he presented you with a souvenir?" Bright pressed further, their expression still betraying no emotions.