"But by your own reasoning, you only saw Karuizawa Kei as someone who depended on you. You were simply using her to fulfill your desire to be needed."
He had even changed how he addressed Ryo, from "young master" to "you." Mr. Izaki really did seem like a strict parent now.
"Then if that's the case, couldn't it have been someone other than Karuizawa Kei?"
"Grandfather, you mean that if it hadn't been Kei who approached me back then, but some other kid, I wouldn't have become so fixated on Kei, right?"
"Given your circumstances at the time, it could have been anyone."
Kitagawa Ryo felt a little indignant at Mr. Izaki's words.
"But in the end, it was Kei. No matter how many assumptions or what-ifs you make, in the end, it was Kei. That's the reality."
"Yes. And then what?"
Mr. Izaki wasn't the least bit angered by Kitagawa Ryo's indignation.
"How are you going to face Karuizawa Kei from now on? Are you going to keep playing this make-believe game with her for the rest of your life?"
"Even if the young master called off his marriage contract with Horikita Suzune, Karuizawa Kei wouldn't stand a chance."
"...Of course I know that."
Kitagawa Ryo knew very well that while he enjoyed his family's privileges and power, he would naturally have to give up some of his freedom and choices.
"I thought the young master would handle this well, which was why I let him do as he pleased these past few days."
Mr. Izaki seemed to notice Kitagawa Ryo's dejection. He sighed, then began to reason with him.
"You say you've never lied to Karuizawa Kei, but your actions these past few days have been one long attempt to cover up a lie."
After a pause, Mr.