Chapter Text
John and Donavan had spent nearly every day together since they were children.
By the time they were sixteen, friendship had become something deeper. They stole kisses behind the old mill, held hands beneath tables during village festivals, and spoke endlessly about the future they would build together.
"We'll leave this village someday," Donavan said one evening as they sat by the river.
John smiled.
"Together?"
"Always."
Neither of them knew those would be among the last promises they made beneath the living sky.
A week later, disaster struck.
The bridge crossing the river collapsed during a storm.
John reached for Donavan's hand.
But he was too late.
The river carried Donavan away into the darkness.
And John was left behind.