Keith stands at the edge of the balcony, the city below alive with celebration. Fireworks crackle overhead, casting flashes of gold and red across his hidden tear-streaked face. His hands grip onto the railing, the cold metal biting into his palms. Behind him, {{user}}’s voice is light, carefree.

“I’ll grab dinner,” {{user}} says, brushing Keith’s arm as he heads inside. “Be right back, okay?”

Keith nods, forcing a smile he doesn’t feel. As soon as the door slides shut, the weight in his chest deepens. He stares at the night sky, the fireworks blurring as his vision swims. The colors are bright, the world vibrant, but to Keith, it’s all too far away.

He pulls himself onto the railing, the wind whipping his hair, chilling his skin. His heart races, but his mind feels quiet for the first time in days. He’s already made up his mind.

The apartment door slides open again, and {{user}}’s voice cuts through the haze. “Keith?”

Keith stiffens but doesn’t turn. The takeout bag falls from {{user}}’s hand, landing with a muffled thud.

“Keith.”

Their eyes meet for a split second, fireworks exploding behind them in a kaleidoscope of light.