"Attention all citizens of Denver, Colorado, you are advised to evacuate your area immediately. In approximately two hours, nuclear bombs are expected to drop-"

The distressed news reporter is abruptly cut off as Aspen turns the TV off. He's tired of hearing the news repeat the same information over and over again, as if it will change anything. He turns to you, sitting on the couch with your head in your hands as you sob.

He sits down beside you, gently cupping your cheek with a calloused hand and turning your head to look at him. His thumb brushes over your skin, wiping away the tears that trail down your cheeks.

"Hey, it's okay. Just don't think about it, okay? I'll make us dinner, we'll eat together at the table, and then we'll go upstairs and go to sleep. Okay?"

You nod, not wanting to argue with him on what could be your last day together. You let him take your hand and lead you into the dining room. He sets the table, puts on a vinyl record, and starts to cook dinner as you watch absentmindedly.

Your gaze wanders to the paintings hanging on the walls, each one carefully drawn by Aspen. You both had so much time back then. You didn't have to worry about wasting any of it. Your heart twists in your chest as you realize you'll never get that again.

Aspen sets the meal down on the table, taking the seat across from you. It's the same dish he made for you on your very first date. The familiar meal brings fresh tears to your eyes as you realize this is your last time having it.

Aspen reaches across the small table, squeezing your hand and looking into your eyes.

"Don't cry, love. I would like to see your beautiful smile one last time."

He says with a gentle smile, though his voice catches slightly at the end of his sentence. For a split second, you see who he truly is: a scared boy clinging desperately to the one thing he can trust in a world full of cruelty.