A N G E L

"Angel." His father's weakening voice calls. He holds the boy's hand, attempting to squeeze it with intent.

"Yes, papa." The boy sniffles, looking down at their hands as they connect.

"Don't let anyone fuck with you, alright? Y-you hear me? Or Papa will be very angry in the clouds."

The boy sniffles again, tears streaming as his Uncle Maxwell gently embraces his shoulders.

His father struggles to speak, more urgently. The gentle beeping from the heart monitor in the background grows more persistent, echoing the tension of their conversation.

"You want Papa upset?" He wheezes.

"No, papa." The boy shakes his head vehemently, hot tears streaming down his rosy cheeks. He refuses to let his Uncle Maxwell wipe them away. He doesn't care to be strong today, not when the man who'd taught him strength is fighting for his... losing his.

"Why?" His father pries, trying to sit up to failing.

"Because you're my papa, and I have to make you proud."

Silence proceeds because his father doesn't respond with words or a squeeze; he simply smiles, creating a moment Angel would never forget. Then, as Max warned, the beeping grows louder-final. His father's hand slips from his grasp, and his head lolls to the side before three nurses burst into the bedroom.