To my astonishment,
after just one ring of the bell,
the tall, electric gates looming over me
opened with an inviting creak.

I looked around for a bit,
expecting the usual escort into the house
by Gilbert.

But in the end,
no one came out to greet me.

"Did the old man fall asleep?"

Sighing,
I decided to go in on my own.

Although this wasn't the first time I've visited,
walking down the paved path
leading up to the house's front doors
still gave me a peculiar feeling.

Neatly-trimmed rose hedges stood on attention at either side along with the occasional marble birdbath,
which lent the space a regal
—almost untouchable—air.

That's a rich girl for you...

I exhaled--
before stopping in place.

"Ichinomiya, I'm...sorry..."

I rehearsed this line
in different variations and tones
until I found something I was satisfied with.

No matter what,
I have to apologize today...

You can do this, Kaito!

With a renewed determination,
I walked to the front doors and knocked.

No response.

"Um,
anyone in there?"

I knocked again,
and this time,
I heard the doorknob click open.

"Took your time, huh, old m-"

But the words stuck to my throat
as soon as I saw who it was.

"..."

Her silent demeanor hasn't changed at all
since the last time we saw each other.

Pushing my nerves aside,
I waved at her.

"Long time no see,

Princess."