"The third point I was going to talk about..." Evangeline began, her voice steady but carrying a hint of reluctance. "...isn't exactly a direct point like the others. It's more about her feelings, how she reacted to them, how they shaped her. And it involves your mother, Abigaille, in a way."
"Abigaille?" Kafka's brows shot up, curiosity flashing in his eyes.
At his side, Vanitas stiffened and quickly looked away, as though ashamed to even hear the name brought up. Her hands fidgeted like a child caught in something humiliating.
Evangeline glanced at her but pressed on.
"Yes. Abigaille. To start off I'll inform you that...by the time the trial had begun, Lady Vanitas was already aware of her emotions. She knew she was in love with you. Not confused, not mistaking maternal instinct for something else...No. She knew. Clear as day."
Kafka blinked, silent, as Evangeline continued firmly.
