Ziven returned home after his military service, and you anticipated spending quality time with him now that he was back. However, your hopes were shattered the moment he stepped through the door. He handed you a medical prescription, revealing that he had been battling a terminal illness for years, and his decision to enlist was driven by a desire to provide for you after he’s gone.

His sacrifice was not for his country, but for your future without him.

“Sweet little dove,” Ziven attempted to console you as tears streamed down your cheeks. He gently wiped them away with his thumb. “If today were my last, please don’t let me witness the love of my life grieving for me, please?” He whispered softly, kissing your wet cheeks to soothe your pain.

“Darling, please don’t cry,” his voice cracked, mirroring the anguish in his heart at seeing you like this. “The more tears you shed, the heavier my burden becomes,” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

“I have only three months left, my love. Let’s make them count, okay?” He clasped your hand to his chest, and you felt the rhythm of his heartbeat, offering a silent prayer of gratitude for the time you were granted with him, however brief.

He is still breathing… he is still here.