Rekillis (3)

Everyone knows this, but once I focus on something, it's difficult for me to pull myself out unaided. My parents said I was so remarkable that I could stay focused even if an explosion went off right beside me.

But this trait isn't always an advantage; depending on the situation, it can also be a disadvantage. For example, I've lost count of how many times I became so absorbed that I didn't realize it was mealtime and ended up skipping a meal, and someone who didn't know me might think I was ignoring them.

That's why, unless I have time to myself, I rarely make use of my concentration. I was able to focus on reading in the guest room because I expected Sebastian to call me later.

"Young man, you're quite interested in history, aren't you?"

"... ..."

"You usually read The Chronicle of Xenon, don't you? How intriguing."

And now, my exceptional concentration had manifested not as an advantage but as a disadvantage. And in a situation that could turn out to be the worst.

I exchanged glances with the middle-aged man looking down at me with a benevolent smile from directly in front of me. His impression combined gentleness with sharpness, and he had snow-white hair tinged with blue.

If one were to depict the image of a 'gentleman,' wouldn't the man right before me be the perfect model? His neat appearance was complemented by a suit that fit him exceptionally well.

'...Huh?'...