Epilogue 1
LUCA
From the first time I met Ro during my freshman year of high school in chemistry class, I knew I would die for her. Did I think that would happen so literally? No, but at this moment I have no regrets.
As the smoke and flames surround me, my breathing becomes more labored.
Either I’ll bleed out or the smoke inhalation will take me.
My only saving grace is knowing Ro got out alive with Dante, and I know he’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
If I can’t be the one by her side for the rest of her life, I’m glad she has found someone willing to protect her at all costs.
This isn’t how I wanted our story to end.
We were just finding our way back to each other, and now I’ll never know if she loves me like I love her.
Just as I have accepted my fate, I’m being tugged up to a standing position, but my legs can’t hold my weight. Before I can crumble to the ground, I’m slung over someone’s broad shoulder, and I can see the ground moving beneath us as I’m being carried, my body completely limp.
Just before my consciousness fades, I register a male voice saying, “It’s Luca.
He needs medical attention immediately.” A pause like someone is responding, but I can’t hear it, and then, “No, I don’t know why he was here.
He shouldn’t have been here.” Another pause for whoever the person carrying me is speaking to respond.
Maybe he’s on the phone? “Yes, I understand, and no, there were no signs of her or Dante. They must’ve escaped somehow, but we will keep looking.
” Pause. “Copy that. Is the chopper on the way? He won’t make it if not.
” Pause. “Yes, boss. Understood.” Pause.
“Stay with me, Luc. Help is on the way.”
How does he know my name? And why does his voice sound so familiar? My thoughts fade, and I take a final breath of fresh air as my consciousness wanes. We must be outside now, and I can hear a loud whooshing sound in the distance. All I know is I can die happy knowing my Rosey is safe.