169 — We don’t control life.

Desmond’s words make my heart skip a beat. But even in the face of my surprise, he continues to look at me with no sign of regret, no laughter, no hesitation... He really means it.

Yet I can’t smile.

Long seconds pass in my silence, and his expression gradually becomes worried. He watches my face intently, paying special attention to my brown eyes that say everything my lips cannot.

I don’t say