**Farewell**

The days that followed were a poignant reminder that time was running out, and James cherished every moment he spent with Nathan. As they sat on the beach, watching the sun rise over the ocean, James felt a sense of peace wash over him. He knew that he had been given a gift, a chance to love and be loved, and he was grateful for every moment they had shared. As the days went by, Nathan's condition worsened, and James stayed by his side, caring for him. They spent their days in quiet comfort, surrounded by the memories of their lifetime of friendship. James cooked Nathan's favorite meals, and they watched old movies together, reminiscing about the good times. One afternoon, as they sat on the couch, Nathan's eyes began to close, and James knew that he was tired. He gently took Nathan's hand, holding it close as Nathan's breathing slowed. James felt a lump form in his throat as he looked at Nathan, his heart full of love and sorrow. "I'm here, Nathan," James whispered, his voice shaking with emotion. "I'll always be here for you." Nathan's eyes flickered open, and he smiled weakly at James. "I know, James," he whispered back, his voice barely audible. "I'm grateful for you. I'm grateful for us." James felt a wave of emotion wash over him as he looked at Nathan, his eyes filling with tears. He knew that he had to be strong for Nathan, but it was getting harder by the day. As the sun began to set, casting a warm orange glow over the room, Nathan's breathing grew shallower. James held him close, feeling his chest rise and fall with each labored breath. He whispered words of love and encouragement, trying to keep Nathan's spirit up. As the stars began to twinkle outside, Nathan's eyes locked onto James', and he smiled. It was a small, gentle smile, but it spoke volumes. James knew that Nathan was at peace, and that he had accepted his fate. With one final glance, Nathan's eyes closed, and his body relaxed. James felt a sense of calm wash over him, as if Nathan had finally found the rest he had been searching for. James held Nathan close, tears streaming down his face as he mourned the loss of the love of his life. In that moment, James knew that he had made the right decision, confessing his love to Nathan. It had brought them closer together, and had given them a chance to cherish the time they had left. As he held Nathan's lifeless body, James felt a sense of gratitude and love, knowing that he had been able to share this time with the person he loved. As the night wore on, James sat with Nathan, surrounded by the silence and the darkness. He knew that he would never forget this moment, this chance to be with the person he loved, to cherish every moment they had left. And as he looked at Nathan, he knew that their love would live on, even in death. The stars shone brightly above, a reminder of the infinite and the eternal. James smiled through his tears, knowing that Nathan was now at peace, and that their love would transcend even mortality. He held Nathan close, feeling his heart break, but also feeling a sense of peace, knowing that their love would stay with him forever.