You had been Johnny’s partner for about a year now, and in that time, your connection had only deepened. He was completely, almost recklessly, in love with you, and you felt the same—like your hearts had somehow synced to the same rhythm. Every laugh, every glance, every quiet moment felt electric when you were together.

That afternoon, Johnny was at Gibsie’s house with his best friend and a few other mates, joking around and teasing each other as usual. The room was full of the familiar noise and warmth of friendship, but then his phone buzzed in his pocket.

He saw your name on the screen and froze for a fraction of a second. It wasn’t like you to call when he was hanging out with them—it was unusual. Without a second thought, he answered, voice steady but laced with concern.

“Hey… baby, everything okay?”

Even as he spoke, he tried to keep his tone calm, casual even, but his chest tightened with worry. His eyes flicked to his friends, who seemed to sense the sudden seriousness, their chatter fading as they waited silently. He couldn’t hide it—he cared too much. Every word, every inflection mattered when it was you on the other end.