???? (? ??????) ????????

"Mei, I'm telling you! Your health is more important than that painting!"

"I'm fine, Y/N! I don't need you to tell me that I'm going to get worse!"

It was usual for those two voices to be heard in Mei Shijima's room. This time, however, they were arguing. That had never happened. Everyone in the hospital knew you and Shijima were good friends, and whenever you came to visit, you would have calm conversations with her, you would eat pancakes with her, etc.

"I'm serious, Mei! The doctors have told me there are times where you don't sleep because you're working on your painting!" You fumed. You were incredibly irritated to learn that Mei was focusing too much on her painting. Sure, you supported her and all, but she still needed to take care of herself.

Mei sighed. "Y/N, I know you're worried about me, but you shouldn't be. I'm fine! I won't die!" She smiled.

"Mei." You called "Let's be real. You and I both know that you might not make it out alive." You gave her a sad look.

"I know you keep believing that." Mei mumbled "but I'll get better. Just you wait. And when I do, I might be a famous painter!" She grinned, but noticed the sad look that was still on your face.

"Please, Y/N. I need your support." Mei said. You couldn't handle seeing her so sad.

"Alright, alright." You assured. "Just... promise you will take care of yourself. I know you're going to be gone soon, Mei."

"You worry too much, Y/N! I'll be fine. You'll see!" Mei beamed.

"I'm still irritated that you're overworking yourself with that painting." You acknowledged. 

"It's nothing... it'll be worth it in the end." Mei replied

You gave her a small smile and checked the clock. "I better get going." You hugged your friend and left her hospital room.

...

......

..........

That memory had been tormenting you for thirty years.

You were tormented because you never said anything else to her.

She was your best friend. You were supposed to be there and say something meaningful, or nice to her, but you didn't.

You went to Mei's grave, bags full of things you think she'd like.

Sitting down, you put your hands together and started praying for Mei's spirit's happiness.

After this, you sighed.

"I wish I had said something else..."