Chapter 127 A bodyguard’s sacrifice

Manga, seeing the danger, didn't hesitate. He threw himself in front of Mariama, his body shielding her from the hail of bullets. Time seemed to slow as Mariama watched in horror. Manga's body jerked violently as multiple rounds tore into him. Yet somehow, impossibly, he remained standing, returning fire with deadly accuracy. Three of Oscar's men fell before Manga finally collapsed, his gun clattering to the ground. "No!" Mariama screamed, dropping to her knees beside him. "Manga, hold on!" His eyes found hers, a weak smile on his bloodied lips. "Miss Mariama," he wheezed, "you must... go. Complete the mission." Tears streamed down Mariama's face as she clutched Manga's hand. "I'm not leaving you," she insisted. With what seemed to be the last of his strength, Manga gripped her arm. "You must," he said, his voice barely audible. "Promise me... you'll finish this." Mariama nodded, her throat tight with grief. "I promise," she whispered. Manga's eyes closed, a look of peace settl