I will die when the last leaf from the tree falls ...

O. Henry's poignant tale revolves around Johnsy, a young artist battling pneumonia, and her roommate Sue. Johnsy develops a morbid obsession: she believes her life will end when the last leaf falls from the ivy vine outside her window.Their elderly neighbor, Behrman, also an artist, overhears their conversation. He decides to paint a remarkably realistic leaf on the wall to deceive Johnsy and give her hope.