The planet crashed around them as the earthquake split open its heart. Rose flung herself to the Doctor for a last, desperate hug and he clung to her with all the strength he had left.
All the pieces had been played. This was it: check mate.
"Rose," he said softly as they lost their balance and sank to the floor. "If this is the end, you have to know. I love you."
She looked to him momentarily, then planted a searing kiss fervently to his lips. He kissed back passionately as their last seconds slipped away.
"I love you, too."