Liam Payne’s partner, Kate Cassidy, is grappling with the emotional fallout of her decision to exit Argentina just before the tragic death of the One Direction star. A close friend of Cassidy shared with sources that she is tormented by her choice to leave Payne alone in the South American country prior to his untimely demise on October 16.
“She did what she thought was best at the moment,” the friend disclosed. “No one could have predicted the outcome. Unfortunately, this choice is something she’ll carry with her forever.”
Reports suggest that two days before Payne’s fatal fall from a hotel balcony, Cassidy had posted a TikTok vlog about her return journey from Argentina. The couple intended a brief five-day stay, which unexpectedly extended to two weeks.
Her friend described Cassidy as feeling immense guilt, despite the reassuring words from loved ones stating it isn’t her fault. “It’s impossible to monitor a 30-year-old man 24/7,” the friend noted. “But she isn’t emotionally ready to accept that right now.”
After departing Argentina, Cassidy reportedly tried to persuade Payne to return with her to Miami, expressing concerns about his well-being. “She made genuine attempts to convince him, but he was not responsive,” the friend explained. “She feels as if she will forever be cast as the villain in this situation, but that isn’t how it truly unfolded.”
Cassidy, who began dating the singer in October 2022, reportedly felt overwhelmed during the trip. “She was longing for her own bed and her dog,” the friend added. “After being away for a week, she felt like she was in a hostage situation. Liam pleaded with her to stay longer, but she ultimately decided she needed to go home.”
Just two days prior to his death, Cassidy documented her journey back to the U.S. The tragic circumstances surrounding Payne’s passing revealed severe injuries, including a cranial fracture, attributed to a fall. Preliminary autopsy findings indicated the presence of multiple substances in his system at the time of his death.
In an emotional tribute posted on social media, Cassidy disclosed that she and Payne had aspirations of marrying, revealing their deep connection before the devastating event.