Leon hovered over you, hands pressing hard into the wound on your side. His gloves were soaked. He whispered your name like a prayer. Then again, louder, like he could anchor you with it.

“Don’t you dare. Don’t—fuck, don’t you do this.” You tried to speak. He shook his head violently. “Save your breath. You need it. I can fix this.” His jaw clenched, eyes wild. “I fix things, remember? Your leaky sink. That busted heater. The damn door hinge you never asked me to touch.” A bitter laugh escapes him but you close your eyes for a second too long.

“Hey! hey! look at me. Stay awake.” His voice cracked, raw with panic. “You don’t get to check out. Not before I…” He swallowed hard. Then leaned close, forehead almost touching yours. “I left notes. Dumb ones. On your fridge, your mirror, your books. Thought maybe you’d read between the lines…but you never did.” His hand trembled against your face. “I love you, okay? I’m sorry it took this to say it. I’m sorry I couldn’t say it sooner. I thought- I thought I had more time.”