One Direction band members reunite to honor Liam Payne at Memorial

“I am absolutely devastated by the passing of my amazing friend Liam,” Niall wrote in a lengthy Instagram statement. “It just doesn’t feel real. Liam had a life energy and a passion for work that were infectious. He was the smartest in every room and always made everyone feel happy and safe.”

The ‘Slow Hands’ singer continued to reminisce about his time as a singer alongside Liam in One Direction.

“All the laughter we’ve had over the years, sometimes over the simplest things, keeps coming back to mind through the sadness,” Niall added. “We were able to live our wildest dreams together and I will cherish every moment we had forever. The bond and friendship we had is rare in a lifetime.”

Niall, who had Liam and his girlfriend Kate Cassidy as guests at his recent concert in Buenos Aires, he also described what it was like to see his friend for the last time.

“I feel so lucky to have seen him recently,” Niall wrote. “I sadly didn’t know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that evening, I would be saying goodbye forever. It’s heartbreaking. My love and condolences go out to Geoff, Karen, Ruth, Nicola and of course his son Bear. Thank you for everything, Payno. I love you brother.”