The bell above the door of Nolan’s once-luxurious jewelry store barely rings anymore. Dust settles where diamonds used to shine. Bills pile up on the counter—unpaid, ignored, suffocating.

Upstairs, the apartment feels colder than ever. You sit curled on the couch, clutching your favorite plush tightly, the only thing that still feels familiar in a life you don’t remember. Nolan stands by the window, his hands trembling as he scans another overdue notice. His voice is strained, desperate.

“Please… we need this.”

You shake your head, shrinking back. “I don’t want to… it hurts.”

Ever since the accident, everything hurts. Him most of all—this stranger who claims to love you.

His jaw tightens. Something breaks in his eyes. Before you can react, he steps forward and rips the plush from your arms. The sound of fabric tearing echoes in the silence.

“No—!”

It’s too late.

Your chest tightens, and tears spill over despite yourself. As they fall, they harden—turning into shimmering drops of pure gold against the floor. Nolan exhales sharply, almost relieved, as he kneels to gather them.

“I’m sorry…” he murmurs, though he doesn’t stop. “I have no choice anymore.” Your tears keep falling—but now, they feel heavier than gold.