Running Carriage: The Moment that Slipped Through the Hands

In Search of Clarity

Colin couldn't calm down after his conversation with Penelope. He needed a break and some time to think about everything that had happened, so he decided to visit Benedict, who, according to rumors, had distanced himself from the family and fully immersed himself in his art.

He decided that before taking any further steps regarding Agatha and Penelope, he needed time to think things through. He felt the need to talk to someone who could give him advice. Remembering that his brother Benedict had not appeared in society for a long time and knowing that their mother was very worried about him, Colin decided to visit him.

Soon he was on his way. The road to Benedict's house wound through picturesque countryside landscapes, and Colin enjoyed the solitude. He needed time to gather his thoughts and find answers to the questions that tormented his heart.

Upon arriving at Benedict's house, he noticed the quietness around. The house looked well-kept, but it was clear that there hadn't been guests for a long time. Colin knocked on the door, and after a few moments, he heard footsteps. The door opened, and his brother's face showed surprise and joy.

Benedict greeted his brother with a broad but slightly weary smile. "Colin! I'm so glad to see you!" exclaimed Benedict, hugging his brother. But Colin immediately noticed the fatigue in his eyes and the slight disarray in his appearance.

They entered the house, and Colin was stunned. Easels were everywhere, the walls were covered with paintings, and the floor was strewn with brushes, paints, and canvases. It was a true creative mess.

"I see you have a creative chaos here," Colin remarked, trying to smile. "I'm glad your creativity is thriving."

Benedict nodded, leading his brother through the clutter to a small area where they could sit. "Yes, I've fully immersed myself in work. It helps me not think about certain things." He tried to appear cheerful, but Colin noticed the tension in his voice.

"How are you, Benedict? Really," asked Colin, looking intently at his brother.

Benedict looked away and sighed. "Honestly, it's not that simple. Sometimes I feel like I'm losing my mind. This creativity, it pulls you in and doesn't let go."

Colin nodded thoughtfully. He knew this feeling all too well from being immersed in his journals. "You're not alone, Benedict. We're always here. If you need to talk, I'm here."

Benedict smiled, but his eyes remained sad. "Thank you, Colin. What brought you to me? You look like you're going through tough times yourself."

Colin sighed, lowered his head, and began to recount the recent events: his return to London, his meeting with Penelope, finding out about Agatha's existence, and his doubts and fears.

"Penelope, Agatha, Debling... Everything is so complicated. I don't know how to handle this."

Benedict listened attentively, nodding in rhythm with his brother's words. When Colin finished, he said, "You made the right decision coming here. We need time to think things through. Sometimes stepping back from problems helps find new solutions. And maybe together we can figure out how to move forward."

Colin nodded, feeling his brother's support. "Thank you, Benedict. I needed to hear that."

"I don't know what to do with Agatha, Benedict," Colin admitted. "I want to be a good father to her, but I don't even know where to start. And Penelope... I still love her, but our relationship is so complicated."

Benedict listened to his brother with attention, not interrupting. When Colin finished, he leaned back thoughtfully in his chair.

"Colin, I understand how difficult it is for you right now," he began. "But first and foremost, you must be honest with yourself and with Penelope. You can't build a relationship on lies or half-truths. As for Agatha, just be there for her. Children sense sincerity and love. Over time, she will accept you as her father if you are supportive."

Colin nodded, pondering his brother's words. "You're right. But I'm still not sure I'm ready for such a serious step. Maybe I need more time to figure out what to do next."

Benedict smiled. "Time is what you have, Colin. No one is demanding immediate decisions from you. Staying here, away from the hustle and bustle of London, will help you think everything over."

Colin felt relieved. The conversation with his brother helped him see the situation in a new light. He decided to stay with Benedict for a few days to regain his strength and clarity before returning to London.

In the evening, sitting in the garden and enjoying the quiet, Colin felt a wave of peace wash over him. He knew that difficult conversations and decisions awaited him, but now he was confident he could handle them. After all, he had his brother's support and, perhaps, a chance to mend his relationships with Penelope and Agatha.