12:20pm
The birds chirp happily as they soar across the blue sky.
Japanese cherry blossom trees bloom nicely in the spring season. I watch the pink flower petals float around the air.
Today is a beautiful day. That's why Mark wants to go out today. So, I stand by the window in our bedroom wearing a black jacket over my white t-shirt and with my black jeans.
A door creaks open behind me.
Mark emerges from the bathroom, a tired expression bearing his beautiful face. He's wearing a navy blue jacket over his white t-shirt with black jeans hugging his slim legs. Our outfits are similar. The only difference is Mark's jacket is zipped up, only revealing his chest.
"Jackson?" Mark stares at me with unbelievably defeated eyes. I've never seen him look so depleted.
"Yes?" I move from the window and make my way to Mark. I grab his hands.
His eyes quiver as he stares at me.
"Today is the day."
"W-what do you mean, Mark?" My grip on his hands, tightens.
"My time is up." A tear falls from Mark's eye.
No.
Please no.
"But-"
"Jackson." Mark holds my face in his hands. "It's time."
This can't...be happening. It just can't be happening.
"How?" I try my best to restrain my tears.
"I feel it. I've been feeling it for a while." Mark smiles sadly. "I can't fight anymore."
Oh God.
Please no.
"However!" Mark perks up. He smiles brightly and claps his hands together. "We can still enjoy the day. It's too beautiful to ignore."
His optimism will never fail to amaze me. Mark knows he's going to die today yet...yet he's still happy and energetic.
That's what makes him the most beautiful being alive.
"Let's go." I grab his hand and smile. I suck in my tears. If this is his last day, I refuse to make him sad.
Today will be a happy day.
Mark smiles. He's glad I accept his fate. He's glad that I didn't cry. He's glad that I'm by his side.
"Let's go!" Mark cheers as he pulls me out of our room.
Right before we leave the house, Mark admires the house that we bought. That we've shared wondrous memories in. His first home shared with someone he loves.
"I'll miss you. My home." Mark bows in the doorway of our house. "Treat my Jackson well!" He yells into the house with a smile.
I could cry right here and now, but I don't. Hold it in, Jackson.
Mark skips to the passenger side of the car. He gets in and I soon follow.
"Hey Jackson?" Mark calls me as I start the engine.
"Hmm?" I look at Mark. He has this mischievous smirk plastered on his face.
"Let's break some rules."
I laugh as we buckle our seatbelts. Mark loves thrills. A true adrenaline junkie.
I back the car out of our driveway. Mark admires our house and our neighbor's as I drive out of the neighborhood.
