Chapter 72

Gage’s POV

Beep...beep...beep...beep.

The consistent high pitched beep penetrates my brain and adds more ache to my already throbbing head. I peel my eyes open slowly and as I do, the rest of my senses roar into life.

The harsh, sterile lights blinds me and I shut my eyes. The pungent smell of antiseptic, with the undertones of artificial fragrance contained in soaps and cleaners block my nasal airways and I scrunch up my nose in disgust.

Hospital...I hate hospitals.

I try to push up myself into a sitting position but the pain that tears through my abdomen keeps me down again. The shuffling of feet gets my attention as a shadow looms over me.

“You’re awake.” Scarlett’s teary face comes into view as she leans in to hug me.

I wince in pain as she puts pressure on my wounds and she jerks back, leaving trails of tears on her tears on my body.

“I’m sorry. I forgot...I was just so excited...I ...” She trails off as her voice