Max nodded, acknowledging her emotions. He then shook his head and smiled, "You shouldn't say that, elder. You have a beautiful life awaiting you."
"Yes, Mother. Please don't speak such words ever again." Maria sobbed with tears in her eyes. Her mother and Father were the people she loved the most. So, it pained her whenever they spoke such ominous words.
The old woman smiled and gently wiped her tears, "Alright, alright. Now don't go crying in front of young sir and behave like a proper lady." She laughingly lectured her.
Hearing this, Maria snuck a glance at Max, who was smiling at them. She blushed and shyly looked away.
…
After half an hour, Maria's father completely calmed down. However, the nerve-racking pain he experienced exhausted him in both body and mind. So, he passed out.
Phew!