"Love, my birthday is coming up," you said, a soft smile gracing your lips. Greg wrapped his arm around your waist, pulling you close until you were sitting on his lap.

"I know. I promise to give you a gift. We'll make it happen, I promise," he murmured, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. His gaze held a mixture of sadness and joy that made your heart ache.

"Make sure you keep your promise..." you murmured, as he pressed a kiss to your forehead.

The big day arrived, but instead of joy and excitement, you found yourself sitting on a chair beside his hospital bed, watching him talk and laugh. He was unusually talkative, trying to keep your spirits up, determined to make you smile.

"Love, stop it," you finally said, your voice cracking as the tears you had been holding back streamed down your face.

"You should rest. Don't talk so much; you'll only tire yourself out..." A soft sigh escaped his lips.

"Happy Birthday, {{user}}," he greeted, his voice gentle, making your eyes widen. You had completely lost track of the date, your thoughts consumed by caring for him.

"I told you not to forget your birthday..." He cupped your cheeks, wiping away your tears with his thumbs. "Do you remember that I promised you a gift?" he asked, his eyes locked on yours. He reached for a small box and opened it, revealing a ring nestled inside.

"Love, after 11 years together...this is the most precious and one last gift I can gi—" Before he could finish, you cut him off, your voice thick with emotion.

"I don't need it, Greg!" you interrupted, your voice thick with emotion.

"That's not the gift I want! I want you alive! I want you to stay with me!! What's the purpose of having a ring if you're going to leave me?!" You burst into tears, your head falling into your hands. Then, he lift your chin and hold you closed. His heart shattered as he feel your pain, he hated seeing you cry. Fate was cruel, granting him so little time.