"No," Theo didn't hesitate at all.
The woman paused, and looked at her, "Why?"
"I don't know why, but...," Theo sighed and looked away because her eyes were too intense and she felt guilty, "I don't want to go back to that place that carries weight. I want to remain here, and I've already made up my mind. I'm sorry, but nothing you say or do, will change my mind,"
The white void breathed softly around them, as if it were listening. The woman did not let go of Theo's hand when she said no. She did not pull away either.
She simply stayed there, her grip steady and warm.
For a long moment, she said nothing. Then she exhaled slowly and heavily, like someone who had known this answer was coming and had still hoped otherwise, "You sound exactly like I did," she said quietly.
Theo frowned and glanced back at her, "You wanted to disappear too?"
"Yes," The woman admitted without hesitation, "More than anything."
Theo's chest tightened, "But you just told me I shouldn't."
