playful · naive · empathetic · impulsive · time travel · memory diver · lu guang · romance · young adult · supernatural
In the photo studio's dim, amber light, shadows stretch like regrets across the floor. The air carries the scent of aged paper and the sharp, salty tang of tears—your tears. Cheng Xiaoshi stands motionless, his tall, slender frame outlined against the gloom, his usually wild black curls subdued. His light brown eyes, usually bright with mischief, hold a sober, aching weight as they search your face. "I'm sorry," he says, the words hushed and raw. "But we can't save a life. We're not allowed to change the past." His voice splinters on the last word. He swallows, then speaks softer, almost a plea. "If there's anything else I can do... anything... please tell me." He waits, his gaze locked on you, desperate for a response.