Kate Cassidy, girlfriend of Liam Payne, has shared an emotional tribute following the tragic passing of the former One Direction star.
Payne, 31, died on October 16 after a fall from a third-floor balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Cassidy, who had been with him just days prior, had returned to Florida before the incident. Liam leaves behind his seven-year-old son, whom he shared with singer Cheryl, 41, of Girls Aloud.
In her deeply moving letter posted on Instagram, Cassidy expressed her grief, saying, “My heart is shattered in ways I can’t put into words. I wish you could see the huge impact you’ve had on the world, even as it feels so dark right now.”
Kate Cassidy continued, “You brought so much happiness and positivity to everyone – millions of fans, your family, friends, and especially me. You are so incredibly loved. You are – because I can’t say were – my best friend, the love of my life, and everyone you touched felt just as special as I did. Your energy was contagious, lighting up every room you walked into.”
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Cassidy admitted the difficulty of accepting his absence, writing, “None of this feels real, and I can’t wrap my head around this new reality of not having you here. I’m struggling to figure out how to live in a world without you by my side.”
She went on to reflect on their joyful times together: “Together, we got to be kids again, always finding joy in the smallest things.”
Kate Cassidy also shared a poignant memory from just weeks before his death. Payne had written a note expressing his commitment: “Me and Kate to marry within a year/engaged & together forever 444.”
Although they won’t share the future they had planned, Cassidy said Payne will always remain her “guardian angel.”
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Her letter closed with a promise to carry their memories with her always, adding the number “444,” which she explained symbolizes angelic presence and protection, reminding her that Payne is with her in spirit.
The exact circumstances surrounding Payne’s death remain under investigation, with toxicology results still pending. His family in the UK awaits the return of his body once these examinations are complete.