Zayn Malik Lost a 'Brother' Following Liam Payne's Tragic Death: 'Thank You for Supporting Me Through Some of the Most Difficult Times'

Zayn Malik is reflecting on the good times he had with his One Direction bandmate Liam Payne following his tragic death on October 16.

"Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me. I can’t help but think selfishly that there were so many conversations for us to have in our lives. I never got to thank you for supporting me through some of the most difficult times in my life," he began via Instagram. "When I was missing home as a 17 yr old kid you would always be there with a positive outlook and reassuring smile and let me know you were always my friend and that I was loved."

"Even though you were young than me you were always more sensible than me, you were headstrong, opinionated, and gave no f--- about telling people when they were wrong. Even though we butted heads because of this a few times, I always secretly respected you for it," he continued.

Malik said he could "always" rely on Payne to "steer the ship next" when they were on stage and something happened.

He concluded: "I lost a brother when you left us and can’t explain to you what I’d give to just give you a hug one last time and say goodbye to your properly and tell you that I loved and respected you dearly. I will cherish all the memories I have you in my heart forever. There are no words that justify or explain how I feel right now other than beyond devastated. I hope that wherever you are right now you are good and at peace and you know how loved you are. Love you bro.”

As OK! previously reported, Payne died after falling from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

"Our role was to head there quickly, give medical attention and try to resuscitate him, but his injuries were incompatible with life," Buenos Aires medical services director Alberto Crescenti explained about the situation. "Based on what the team saw, there was apparently a cranial fracture and extremely serious injuries that led to his immediate death."

Since then, tributes have poured in for the singer, who was only 31 years old at the time of his death.

One Direction also posted a statement regarding their band member's death.

“We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly. The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever. For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam," the statement from Malik, Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson read.