SIXTY.

I look down at my shaking hands that match the tremor in my heart.

Nothing can prepare you for a moment like this, even if you have been forewarned.

You just don't think of the worst that is to come because deep down in your heart, you pray that the stars will continue to align themselves.

"Farfalla,” His voice rips through the air as the double doors crash open. “Are you all right?”

“I. The machine stopped.” I gulp, suppressing the sob that wants to break free from my burning throat.

“Ryan’s gone down to check the generators. It's only this side of the building that's gone dark.” He reaches out, pulling me into his arms. “Your papa won't die straight away, amore mio. He will struggle to breathe, but he won't die.” Alessandro says in a firm tone, needing me to hear him through the blood pumping loudly in my ears.

I nod my head, clinging to his chest, and I can hear him breathing in shallow tones.

“You should sit down,” I whisper, “you've been shot, and you're walking around like