Here is a short story inspired by the emotions of that phrase: The Promise of the Last Autumn
Selim felt a sharp ache in his chest, but he didn't reach out to stop her. He loved her enough to know that his grip was what was suffocating her. He took a deep breath, forcing a smile that didn't reach his tired eyes. "Then let's make a deal," he said softly. She finally looked up, confused. "A deal?"
She looked at him for a long moment, seeing the immense effort he was making to be her strength one last time. She wiped her eyes and gave him a small, flickering smile—a fragile light in the autumn chill.
Leyla sobbed, a single tear escaping. "How can I not be sad?"
