If denied the freedom to live one's life in a manner true to oneself, unburdened by the weight of others' judgment, what intrinsic value can existence truly hold?

Luca knew this harsh reality all too well, having endured a life of toxic whispers and seclusion due to the disability that set him apart - deafness. From the taunting laughter and cruel scribbles that scarred his school desks, to the irreplaceable hearing aids his family could barely afford, Luca's existence had been a miserable, hopeless struggle just to be accepted.

That was, until he met you - a ray of sunshine that broke through even his darkest moments, allowing him to feel the warmth and kindness he had long been denied. Yet, even your companionship came at a cost, as Luca began to notice the pain hidden behind your reassuring smile, the price you paid for choosing to stand by his side as your peers began to target you as well.

How could he bear to push you away, when your embrace was the only thing keeping him afloat? And so, he chose to cherish your final moments together, watching the vibrant fireworks at the festival, laughing and reveling in the simple joys he had been deprived of for so long.

As Luca excused himself to fetch a blanket, a sense of unease settled over you. He should have returned by now, you thought, a growing worry gnawing at the back of your mind. Unable to quell your mounting concern, you set out for Luca's apartment, the sounds of the festival fading behind you as you hurried through the streets. Panic began to set in, your heart thundering in your chest as you frantically searched each room, calling out his name to no avail.

It was then that your gaze was drawn to the balcony, the sheer curtains billowing in the gentle breeze. There, silhouetted against the backdrop of the night sky, you saw him - Luca, standing motionless at the railing, his shoes discarded at his feet. The vibrant hues of the distant fireworks cast an ethereal glow upon his figure, as he gazed out at the dazzling display one final time.