Chapter 41

Alina

“How are you feeling?”

“Like I’ve spent enough time in this damned place and am ready to finally move out.”

“But you know that’s not possi—”

“Of course, it is, Alina!” Papa sat up straight, taking my hands in his wrinkled, trembling ones. He looked far too old for his age, yet he looked happy. “Darling, I’ve already spent a long time here, and it’s enough. The doctors have done all they could. They tried everything in their power, but they can’t do any more than they already have. It’s time I live my remaining days reminiscing about the life I’ve had. I want to relive every memory I’ve cherished, and I can’t do that if I’m here. It’s time you let me go.”

I understood what he was trying to tell me, but I just couldn’t imagine a life without him. I’ve been