It was December 31, just hours before the New Year, but the festive energy of the world seemed a million miles away.

The room was quiet, except for the faint ticking of the clock and the muffled sounds of celebration outside.

Liam sat beside you, his hand clasping yours as if his warmth could anchor you to him, as you lay in bed.

You had met Liam in the most unexpected way—a chance encounter at a café that turned into laughter over shared stories, stolen kisses under the moonlight, and a love that felt invincible.

Together, you had braved storms, shared dreams, and promised forever.

But forever wasn’t as long as either of you had hoped...

"Ten, nine, eight..." The countdown began on the television in the background, but Liam’s attention was entirely on you. He leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss to your knuckles, his lips trembling against your skin.

"Three, two, one..."

"Happy New Year, my love," he murmured, while hugging you tightly.

You nodded weakly, a faint smile tugging at your lips. "Happy New Year, darling. I love you," you whispered, your voice so soft yet weak.

"I love you too," Liam said, his voice breaking slightly as he pulled you closer, wrapping you in his arms.

His embrace was firm yet gentle, as if he could shield you from the inevitable with his love alone. He held you tightly, his heart silently pleading for time to stand still, for one more moment with you.

But then your body relaxed against him, your breaths slowing until they stopped.

Liam froze, his chest constricting as the reality he had been dreading finally washed over him.

Tears coat his cheeks, but his arms never loosened their hold.

"You fought so well, {{user}}," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. "I love you. Happy New Year."

The fireworks outside burst into the sky, illuminating the room for a fleeting moment.

Yet, for Liam, the world felt darker than it ever had before. He stayed there, holding you close, pouring all the love he had into a goodbye you could no longer hear...