I am sorry, Mother," Leo murmured, seated near a fountain on a small elevated platform made of cement and marble.
With both fists clenched and eyes cast downward, he couldn't shake the memory of how he had been unable to stay by his mother's side for longer.
He recalled the way she fought for every breath, her body worn to the brink of exhaustion, yet still managing to muster a weary smile.
Her face, though fragile, radiated a fierce determination to continue her battle for life.
All of these images pointed to the harsh reality: she was nearing her limits, holding on as best as she could.
But even more poignant was the glimmer of hope in her eyes, a silent plea for her son to strive for a better life.
It was as if, in her moment of greatest vulnerability, she was still encouraging him to chase after his dreams.
