Kate Cassidy, girlfriend of the late Liam Payne, has penned a deeply emotional tribute following the former One Direction singer’s tragic death.
Payne, 31, passed away on October 16 after falling from a third-floor balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he had been with Cassidy just days before she returned to Florida.
Following his death, Payne leaves behind a seven-year-old son, whom he shares with Girls Aloud Singer, Cheryl, 41.
In her heart-wrenching letter, shared on Instagram, Kate Cassidy expressed her grief, writing: “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.”
She 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.”
“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 added.
The statement continued: “Together, we got to be kids again, always finding joy in the smallest things.”
Reflecting on their future plans, Cassidy revealed a poignant moment from just weeks before his death when Payne had written a note saying: “Me and Kate to marry within a year/engaged & together forever 444.”
She shared that although their future together won’t be as they had envisioned, Payne will always be with her as a “guardian angel.”
The letter concludes with Cassidy saying she will love him for the rest of her life, carrying their memories with her wherever she goes. She also included the number sequence “444,” explaining it symbolizes angelic presence and protection, reminding her that Payne is always with her.
The exact cause of Payne’s death is still under investigation, with toxicology reports pending. Until these are completed, his body cannot be returned to his family in the UK.
