“Foolish, foolish men," she muttered. "They need you to prevail.”

“I'm counting on that," Mila murmurs as she steps away. "I just need some time Pax; time for you to show that you are serious about this, about putting the work in. That's all I need.”

“She's the reason I came to your house, remember? She called me or I wouldn't have known that things were so bad. She loves you, Pax. And if there's anything that you should take away from this is that you need to live for today. Tomorrow is not promised to you.”

“You can have all the time that you need, Mila. I'll wait forever if I have to.”

“Son, you were your mother's peace. You brought her so much peace and joy from the very first time she held you, that she knew she had to name you Pax. Your mother loved you more than anything in the world. She would have gladly given her life a hundred times over to keep you safe. Whatever you do, just live a good life for her. She had so many hopes for you. But when it boils down to it, all she would want is for you to be happy.”

“A simple thank you for saving my life would suffice. I don't need for you to carry me off to your bed to show your gratitude.”

“I have everything I need now, too," I assure her. "And you're never going anywhere which is why I'm giving this to you.”