I sat silently, taking deep breaths while recalling what she had said.
"You're right..."
Somewhere along the line, I became lost in the thought that I was some kind of hero. A protagonist who could do anything. I began to see those around me as NPCs or as individuals meant to enhance me.
However, they were real... all with feelings, desires, and thoughts.
The John Wang I used to be was gone. The hardworking man who suffered in order to succeed against all odds.
I wanted to change, to regain that part of myself.
But even as I thought it, I knew words wouldn't fix anything. Not with Roulan. Not anymore.
She still stood there, arms crossed. Watching me.
Not waiting for an apology.
Waiting for clarity.
I didn't stand.
"I'm not asking for your forgiveness."
"But if there's a version of me that you will accept and stand beside... I want to find him."
She remained motionless. Just stared in the dim moonlight, eyes icy and piercing.