**Seaside Motel — 6:18 AM**
The frost touched the edge of the window. Emerie's breath slowed, a tide pulling gently away from the shore.
Albert sat beside her, still holding her hand.
He had not slept.
She opened her eyes—once.
“Ready?" he whispered.
She smiled, faint and full. “Already left. You're just catching up."
Her fingers curled tighter for a second.
Then loosened.
She exhaled.
One soft breath.
Then no more.
The room fell still.
No alarms.
No cries.
Just the hush of waves outside, and the pulse of something that would never quite heal.
Albert sat there a long time.
Then kissed her forehead and stood.
He didn't wipe his tears.
He folded her blanket.
He whispered, “I'll keep everything."
And he meant it.
---
**One Week Later — A Cold Pier**
Wind snapped agains
