The passage describes a moment where a character retrieves a silk fan with violet embroidery from his desk drawer, suggesting it belongs to the narrator. The fan was discovered in the corridor, indicating that the narrator may have left it behind after an earlier encounter. The character's expression hints at deeper feelings or implications regarding the narrator's earlier actions, suggesting that the fan is not just an accessory, but a symbol of something more significant between them.

The narrator's response, "I doubt it very much," shows their skepticism towards the idea that their appearance had a considerable impact. This exchange captures not only the tension between the characters but also hints at underlying emotions and unspoken connections. The fan serves as a physical reminder of their interaction, encapsulating a blend of intimacy and misunderstanding that defines their relationship in that moment.