A breath of fresh air—that’s all I need. The sky is heavy with clouds, their faint light making my heart skip a beat. Standing by the ocean, I think of the time we stood here together, watching the sunset, remembering every single day I had with you.

“You’re all I have, Ara. No matter what happens, I know you’ll survive. You’ll keep on living,” you said.

“Why are you saying this, Han? Stop. We’re strong. People like us don’t just disappear.”

It was here, at the rocky shore of Masbate port, where we argued. We thought there would always be time to make up, to laugh, to remind ourselves that we wouldn’t drift apart. But I didn’t know it would be the last time I’d hear your voice.

I am standing in the same spot, tears flowing down my cheeks. I try not to cry, but it’s hard. I’m alive because of you. Your heart beats inside me. You gave me this chance to live, but you never told me you wouldn’t stay. You died!

“Han,” I whisper, “how can I thank you for this? Every heartbeat reminds me of you. How do I carry it without breaking?”

It’s been a year, and not a day passes without missing you. Yet, I understand now what you wanted. You wanted me to live, to move forward, and to cherish the gift you left behind.

“You left me with more than a goodbye,” I say. “You gave me your heart, your strength. This is where it left us, and I promise to live fully—for both of us.”

As the waves touch the shore, I feel a quiet peace. “Goodbye isn’t the end, is it? It’s a beginning. Thank you, Han. I’ll carry you with me, always. Until we meet again.”