"…" Richard fixed his cold, unwavering gaze on Robin's eyes, the intensity in his stare calm yet piercing. "If that's truly what you believe about me, then I won't argue. That's fine."
"Heh~" Robin exhaled slowly, rubbing the bridge of his nose between his eyes in mild irritation. He then turned to Richard with a mix of impatience and seriousness. "Listen carefully, my son. I'll be completely honest with you. When it comes to you, I have a weakness—a soft spot. Ask for anything, and it will be yours. Truly, anything. If you wished for a fantasy paradise on this material world, I would make one for you. But, I cannot—no, I will not—allow you to go out there, ruining your reputation, or worse, throwing your life away recklessly. That is why I am hard on you, why I push you even when it seems unfair. Do you understand?"
"Ruining my reputation… or yours?" Richard's expression softened just slightly, and a faint, almost defiant smile appeared on his face.
