"Hehe."
The painter seemed unconcerned with Tsurumi's attitude, smiling amicably, his hand once again caressing "Ruri" as if gently stroking a lover's skin:
"Oh, I was too busy speaking. I forgot to show you what Ruri looks like; she was a very beautiful woman. There's a self-portrait of her in the book, but the room light here is too dim, making it hard to see clearly. But it doesn't matter; I've also painted her, created many works based on her portrait and those life photos."
"Due to Ruri's influence and guidance, I, who was originally aimless, found direction and chose to pursue painting, just to be a little closer to her past life. From high school, through university, and finally to adulthood. I practiced painting day after day, even when I was sick. To me, that was a joyful time because I could feel that Ruri was watching me grow."
