[For a second, L does, in fact, think that this is hell. He could consult his Bonded, at the very least Near, and mutually determine how best to inform Mello. In the end, he doesn't have the heart to lie, at least through more than mere omission.

His voice is a soft monotone when he answers.]

What you've been told is true; what you're expected to believe won't change. It's a reality all of us share, and so... sooner would be better.