Chapter 79

Carmela pressed her hands against Max's wound, trying to stop the bleeding. Tears streamed down her face as she begged Max to stay with her. 

"Please, please don't do this to me," she sobbed. "I need you. I love you."

But Max just smiled, blood bubbling up from his mouth. "You're too late," he said, his voice weak. "I love you too, but I can't stay. I'm sorry."

"Please don't talk like that," Carmela pleaded. "Please don't give up. Just stay with me. I'm here. I'm right here with you." 

She brushed his hair away from his face, and he turned to look at her, his eyes glazed with pain. His hand reached up to cup her cheek, and she felt his touch, warm and wet with blood. "I'm glad I got to see you one last time," he whispered. "I love you."

Carmela sobbed, unable to speak. She held his hand, wishing she could stop time and make this moment last longer.

Max's eyes started to flutter, and Carmela could tell he was fading.

 "Don't go