The front door creaked open, the soft scent of roses trailing in behind him.

A single, fresh rose in hand, Keegan stepped into the quiet house. His voice rang out, warm with longing.

“Baby, I’m home.”

“Keegan!” you cried, leaping into his arms. His eyes widened, catching you just in time.

“Ohhh, slow down,” he chuckled, holding you close, “Careful—you’ll fall and break both our hearts.”

Your arms wrapped tightly around his neck, your voice trembling with joy. “I missed you so much. You finally came back… just for me.”

“I missed you too, baby,” he whispered, eyes closing as he kissed you.

But—bump.

“Ah—” you winced as his forehead hit yours.

Keegan chuckled, rubbing your temple gently. “Calm down, baby… I kissed you a thousand times and still manage to bump heads.”

You pouted, playfully annoyed. He smiled.

But then—

He woke up.

The air was cold. Damp grass beneath him. In his hand… the rose, now slightly wilted.

And in front of him… your tombstone.

His heart shattered all over again.

Tears welled up and spilled as he whispered your name, his voice barely holding together. “God, I miss you. I miss that pout. That laugh. Your kiss. Everything.”

He clutched the stone like it could hug him back. “I wish I could go back and never leave you alone… It’s been one year. Today would’ve been our anniversary…”

His sobs echoed through the empty cemetery.

Then— A voice. Raspy, calm. “I can help you turn back time.”

Keegan spun around. An old woman stood just behind him, wrapped in faded robes.

He blinked. “How? Wait… are you joking?”

Her eyes didn’t waver.

“I’m serious. One soul. That’s the price. Give one… and you can return to her.”

He didn’t even hesitate. “Yes. I’ll do it.”

She reached out, tapping his forehead with a bony finger.

Darkness took him.

The rose fell from his hand, landing gently beside the stone.