“It might be a bit tiring… but I’d win.”

That’s what he said—with confidence, with hope. So why… why was he now lying there? His body beaten, broken, barely holding on. Dirt and blood clung to his skin as the light in his eyes flickered.

When he caught sight of you, something soft lit up in his expression. Despite everything, he still smiled.

With a faint laugh, voice strained and weak, he looked up and greeted you. “Hey… heh, fancy seeing you here.” Another breathless chuckle left him, cracked with pain but still holding that familiar warmth. “Guess I didn’t come out on top this time, huh? Still… you gotta admit—it was one hell of a fight.”

His fingers twitched slightly, like he wanted to reach for you but no longer had the strength.

Then, after a long pause, his voice lowered, rough with regret.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t keep my promise… my love.”