Although the unexpected visit caught Shade somewhat off guard, Mrs. Lawrence was fortunately a reasonable person. After reading the detailed report in full, her disappointment over today's visit was no longer so severe:
"Since the investigation is already over, why didn't you give me the report immediately? Was it because Mr. Sparrow Hamilton suddenly fell ill?"
The noblewoman asked politely, setting the report beside her. She was fashionably dressed, and her ruffled collar complemented her fair neck beautifully. Though she seemed considerably older than Lassoya, she possessed an outstanding bearing.
"After taking over this office, I sorted through Uncle Sparrow's remaining commissions. My original plan was to add the final surveillance he had been unable to complete due to his illness to the end of the report, so I followed Lasoya again last Saturday."
Shade put on a troubled expression, then shooed away the orange cat that had approached in concern. Sitting in the single sofa, he spoke to his client in a deeply worried tone:
"During my investigation, I found that Mrs. Lasoya's background seemed far from simple. She seemed... connected to illegal local organizations."
His fingers tapped the armrest, displaying his unease:
"Very dangerous."
He then put on an even more troubled look and said no more. Mrs. Lawrence nodded knowingly.
Shade had no idea what she had understood.
"You believe continuing the investigation would be dangerous, and that submitting the report might let that shameless woman discover that you and Sparrow Hamilton had been following her, so you abandoned the investigation."
The noblewoman summarized, almost perfectly guessing Shade's thoughts:
"Yes, exactly. I don't want to get into trouble over this. Of course, by doing this, I have voluntarily terminated the investigation. If you need it, I can return the advance payment Uncle Sparrow received. You may also