"I really hate myself. Just because of my foolish playfulness, I caused their suffering... I'll never be able to forgive myself. In the two years after they died, I had nightmares every day, couldn't sleep every night, became increasingly reclusive, and didn't like to speak a word..."
"Later, on the day of my parents' memorial, I mustered the courage to come here and confide my remorse and pain to them."
"Then I could feel them smiling at me, gently comforting me by my side."
"The next morning, I'd feel a sense of relief... So every year on this day, I come here to repent for my mistakes, hoping to find some peace..."
"Ran, I'm telling you all this not to seek your sympathy."
"I just need someone to listen. I've buried this secret alone for so many years. It's been so hard. If I don't speak out, I won't be able to endure it. The repression will just grow, and one day, I'll collapse..."
