If Jo was confused before, she was positively befuddled now. She knew she had caused tension between them in those months. She knew the letters had confused and ruined things. She knew Zelda was feeling insecure about their friendship. But, somehow, Jo had never considered why Zelda might be insecure. Jo had never considered that Alfred might've had feelings for her that extended beyond friendship. The idea was so outlandish that Jo nearly laughed at the comment. He never loved her, never chose her, never felt anything beyond friendship towards her.

Had he?

Jo felt like he had cast a powerful stunner at her as she took in his expression and demeanor. Alfred was angry - was this it then? Was this what had changed? Did he realize he had feelings for her and had still chosen Zelda? Jo didn't blame him for it, she wouldn't have wanted him to choose differently, but - this was it. This was the dark secret that had caused the rift. This was what happened on Thursday.

"And your response?" Obviously, Alfred had chosen Zelda. Obviously, whatever he felt for her had to have surpassed what he potentially felt for Jo. But still, she had to know. If the moment was to reset, if she was to never have this conversation with him again, she had to have some sort of clarification over what had ruined them. At least then, she might've been able to suffer through the endless smalltalk.

"You chose Zelda, and I would never begrudge you that choice. Never. But please, Alfred, just this once, be honest with me."

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