Chapter 63. Homecoming

The day Hayden was discharged felt like spring breaking through after a long winter. The hospital smelled of antiseptic and rain, the hallways alive with the sound of nurses saying goodbye.

Myla adjusted the jacket on his shoulders while Beck signed the last of the forms and Jared loaded their things into the waiting SUV.

“We took extra care that your discharge wasn't leaked to the press," Myla said softly, her hand brushing through his hair. "But just in case, are you sure you’re ready for this?"

Hayden smiled softly up at her. She didn’t understand that the fact that he was still in the hospital was like a itch under his skin since the day he woke up. “I’ve been ready since the day they told me I couldn’t leave.”

The nurse wheeled him toward the exit, and when the sunlight hit his face, he squinted, then laughed.

There was no single reporter waiting outside. Hayden let out a tiny breath of relief because despite what he told Myla, he was not read