Don't give up

As the ambulance sped through the streets, sirens blaring, I felt my heart tearing apart. I couldn't lose her. Not now. Not ever. I just got her back. Losing her wasn't an option, not at all. I wasn't ready for it. And most importantly, I wasn't ready to face our kids.

What will I tell them when they ask what happened to their mum? How would I have them know someone shot her on her way to the venue? Was I too demanding when I asked her to come over? Would it have been better if I urged her to stay back? She would have been safe, I know that.

“Nova, please hang on,” I whispered, my voice cracking. “I love you. Don't leave me.”

The nurses worked to stabilize her, but I barely registered their efforts. All I could focus on was Nova's pale face, her closed eyes, not aware of what was going on around her.

We arrived at the hospital, and the paramedics rushed to unload Nova. I followed, still grasping her hand, as they wheeled her towards the operating room. But just as we reached the door