A Light in the Darkroom

Feng Deng thought he and Zhao Ji had first met in the hospital room.

Only later did he learn that it was a reunion.

Six years ago, Zhao Ji pulled him out of the rubble. Six years later, he accompanies Zhao Ji on the journey to freedom.

Zhao Ji is actually unwilling to admit that his life is nearing its end. He always says he has no regrets, but whenever he bathes in the sunlight, he desperately and feverishly begs to go on living. Pain and ugliness don't matter. He wants to live.

Until everything becomes irreversible.

In the spring sunshine, Feng Deng tells him, "You may not know this, but you have extended my life twice."

Zhao Ji thinks it's good that Feng Deng can go on living, yet clutches his clothes tightly and refuses to let go.

'What should I do? I can't bear to let go.'

[1v1, tragic ending, older man, childhood friends, short story]

Theme: The world seems beautiful because there are still people we hold dear.