After a long wait, John finally came out to welcome Edward and Arthur. He greeted them warmly and instructed his servant, Wilson, to bring them some tea along with a few appetizers, and to prepare rooms for them.
John's house was a vast mansion. At a single glance, anyone could tell he came from an upper-class family. Yet John himself didn't seem to care much for such things. He welcomed the two brothers with genuine warmth, and his humble manners made Edward feel slightly embarrassed.
Edward said,
"John, thank you for hosting us. I'm truly sorry for troubling you like this. I hope we're not becoming a burden."
John laughed and replied,
"Hahaha, don't be like that. Since when have we become so formal? Are you really planning to cling to manners even in circumstances like these?
To be honest, having the two of you stay here is an honor. As you can see, my house is huge and spacious. Ever since my father passed away, it's been just me and my servant Wilson living here. So your stay actually brings joy to my heart. After all, this place feels more like an abandoned castle than a home."
John chuckled as he answered Edward.
The three of them exchanged stories, laughter, and old memories after the servant brought tea and snacks. Meanwhile, Arthur remained silent, simply listening to their conversation.
After about two or three hours had passed, John said,
"Sorry if I've taken up too much of your time. I've already had your rooms prepared, so please follow the servant—he'll lead you to them in the attic."
Suddenly, Edward interrupted him and said,
"Actually... there's something I need to tell you first, so please listen carefully."
John responded,
"Go ahead."
Arthur immediately understood that Edward was about to say something important, because a clear trace of unease had appeared on his face.
Then Edward spoke six words—words that plunged the living room into complete silence.
"I think Olivia's death was staged."
Arthur was the first to break the silence. He spoke up,
"Edward... do you really believe that?
The police investigated the case and found nothing! I understand how you feel—we both went through the same thing, after all. But a man has to move forward and work hard, so the spirits of the dead may be remembered. A person doesn't truly die until their name disappears from this earth."
Edward stared at Arthur in silence for a moment. Then, after lowering his gaze to the floor, he spoke words so delicate and heavy that each one carried deep meaning.
"What if the police are involved?"
Shock filled the living room.
Then Edward continued,
"If we go back over everything and look at it carefully, it feels like the police barely put any effort into the investigation. They wrapped up the entire case in less than half a day. Don't you think that's a little strange?"
John looked at Edward suspiciously and asked,
"Do you have any proof?"
Edward gave a bitter smile and replied,
"I don't know if this can really be considered proof or not... so please, listen carefully."
After Edward told them about what he had experienced, they finally understood why he had brought it up and why he believed Olivia's death had been staged. They also learned about the letter he had found on his sister's desk.
Silence once again settled over the room.
Then John broke it with a sigh and said,
"Alright. Promise me you won't do anything reckless during this time. This is a serious matter, and I'll definitely try to help you however I can."
He paused for a moment, then added,
"You know, you're actually lucky. My father used to have a wide network of connections, and among them was a man who worked for the FBI. He's retired now. I can arrange for you and your brother to meet him. He owes my father a debt, so he won't refuse me."
Edward felt deeply embarrassed, realizing that he had once again placed another burden on John's shoulders. He tried to say something in apology, but John seemed to guess what he was about to say and cut him off.
"No need to overthink it. I'm only doing my duty as a friend. For now, all you and your brother need to do is relax and get ready for school."