Chapter 49- Shadows of the Pastacross

Arielle's POV

Italics: Flashback

"Mumma, please don't leave me." Tears streamed down my face as I held onto her hand with a death grip. Her eyes, once bright and full of life, were now dull and lifeless, pools of sorrow reflecting the storm within her. I leaned in closer, my heart aching with a pain so deep it felt like I was on the verge of a heart attack. "Mumma," I whispered, my voice a mere breath against her cheek. "I can't live without you."

The sterile hospital room was a tomb, the hum of machines a relentless dirge.

I felt the cold, hard grip of her hand, my trembling like a leaf caught in a cyclone.

Her words echoed, a haunting melody of regret and sorrow. "My Ari,"

"Mumma, please," I begged, my voice a desperate cry. "Don't give up. Please fight."

She closed her eyes and smiled painfully, breathing, a difficult dance with death. I squeezed her hand tightly, my heart a heavy stone in my chest.

"I would fight wars for you, my child," she whispered, her voice a fragile thread in