Chapter 34 - Giovanni (3) & Malia (1)

"They're still deciding if she can handle another operation this soon. Last I heard, she was sleeping in her bed at the hospital when the doctors called me. I asked if I could see her, but they told me it's best if I let her rest tonight. I'm scared, Gio." She sniffs, her body trembling once again. "What if… What if she doesn't—"

I pull her face to me, kissing her to stop the rest of the words from coming out. Her lips taste salty as tears once again roll out of her eyes. Her kisses are hesitant and yet she clings to me. My heart races as I deepen the kiss, hoping it's enough to calm her down, hoping I'm enough to wash away her worries.

When I break the kiss, I rest my forehead on hers, our lips hovering against each other. "Let's not think the worst, okay? I'll make sure she'll get all the help that she needs."

Malia nods, her arms wrapping around me as though she doesn't want to let go, and she lets out a huge sigh.