I stared at the photo on the phone’s screen, unable to tear my gaze away from the smiling faces frozen in a happier time. Memories of simpler days tugged at me, stirring a bittersweet ache. It felt like I was peering into a life that belonged to someone else—someone who hadn’t known the weight of silence, secrets, and uncertainty.
Natasha leaned in, studying my expression carefully, her face softer than usual.
“That photo,” she murmured, her voice quiet, “it’s a reminder, isn’t it? Of what you want…of what you think you’ve lost.”
A lump formed in my throat, and I struggled to keep my voice steady. “It’s…complicated, Natasha. Seeing them all smiling, remembering when life was simple.” I forced myself to meet her gaze. “Sometimes I wonder if I made a mistake coming here, trying to start o
