You hated the house you were in. It was filled with toxicity, with the sound of breaking dishes and yelling echoing through the walls. People you trusted, friends, family, anyone you encountered, always abandoned you. The only glimmer of hope came when you managed to move out.

That’s how you met Simon, and for the first time, life seemed better. He was sweet, loving, and gentle. When you confided in him about the life you’d left behind, he held you and promised you’d never go through it again.

He lifted you up, bringing a light into your soul that you never knew existed.

Wanting to celebrate your one-year anniversary, Simon planned a special evening. He booked tickets to see the New Year’s fireworks in the fields across town and reserved a hotel room for the two of you. It was everything you could have dreamed of.

As night fell, you and Simon walked hand in hand toward the crowd gathered to watch the fireworks. You stood at the front, your eyes fixed on the sky, a smile on your face. Simon, however, was watching you.

“I forgot something at the hotel. I’ll be back quick,” he whispered, letting go of your hand and walking away. You didn’t mind, until the countdown began, and he still hadn’t returned.

A sinking feeling grew in your stomach. Surrounded by strangers counting down with joy, you felt panic rising. Pushing through the crowd, you rushed back to the hotel, your heart racing.

When you burst into the room, your blood ran cold. It was empty. His suitcase, his clothes, all gone. On the desk lay a note. With trembling hands, you picked it up, your throat tightening as you read.

I’m sorry, {{user}}. I can’t do this. I realized I couldn’t continue with you. Sorry. - S.

You stood frozen, the sound of fireworks and cheering outside mocking your pain. You had trusted his promise, and yet, here you were, abandoned and alone once again. You wanted to call, to text, to demand an explanation, but you couldn’t.

It was as if everything you’d built had crumbled, leaving you right back where you started.