*Timeskip brought to you by Mello's fabulous feather boa*

I was working to solve the Kira case and more determined than ever to finally beat Near.

I was going to beat that sheep even if it was the last thing I ever did.

I already knew how Kira killed, I'd had use of a Death Note until the Japanese police made me blow up my hideout.

I was ready for it all to be over, even if it meant dying.

I was just so damn tired of living a lie. Everything about me had to be kept hidden, from my job to my whereabouts, right down to my true name.

I'd given up so much for this life I was forced into. I'd never been asked if I wanted to be a detective. I'd never had a proper childhood, it was all about becoming L's successor.

And none of it seemed to matter so much anymore. The only good thing in my life was Matt. He was the only reason I was still alive honestly. I'd often thought of just ending it, but I couldn't do that to him.

I don't think Matt cared at all about the Kira case, he'd rather be playing his video games. But he still spent so much time helping me, because he knew how much it meant to me.

Before we set out on what was to be our final mission, we held each other tight.

"Whatever happens, Matt, you know I'll always love you, right?"

"I know. And Mello, you know I love you too. Always."

"Always." I repeated as we kissed for the last time.