before project b.h. [Part 17] - understand that do not understand

"Yes, you're right, Maria. I did it for myself."

His words instantly silenced Maria. A feeling of disappointment grew in her heart. She hesitated, a little scared of the truth, and said, "You're helping me only because you want to punish yourself?"

"No."

"Then...?," a glimmer of hope appeared, making Maria smile, hoping for a satisfying answer.

"I did it for myself. You already know why I did it, right? Why are you doubting my words from that day?"

Maria fell silent for a moment, feeling a little guilty. She lowered her voice and replied, "Because seeing you every day until now makes me doubt it."

"Doubt?"

"Yes, I doubt if you really wanted to help me back then. Maybe you were using me as an excuse so you could lie to yourself again, like you usually do."