[ Zhongli carefully settles his hands back in his lap at the flinch, doing his best to not call attention to her reaction. Hu Tao was so young. It was really her parents that should be here today, offering her the comfort that even she who was well acquainted with death so desperately needed. But unfortunately— ]

Miss Hu...

[ His words are soft, but still careful and measured. ]

I think that this hat can give you comfort and a sense of purpose, just as it did for your grandfather and the many directors before him.

However—

[ Zhongli bows his head a little, knowing that he is delivering an answer that is hard to hear. The process of grief was never a simple one. But with the responsibilities that would soon land on Hu Tao's shoulders, there were some fantasies that the soon-to-be Director should not entertain. No matter how difficult. ]

We cannot meet again those that have already departed this world. Nor would it be advised to wish for such a thing.