chapter 21
Hate
Mark sat beside Liam's hospital bed, his eyes fixed on his husband's pale face. Liam had yet to wake up since their arrival at the hospital, and Mark's worry was growing by the minute. The doctors had told him that Liam had suffered greatly during his captivity, and that he was malnourished, weak, and dehydrated.
Mark's heart ached as he thought about what Liam had endured. He was grateful that Liam was only seven months pregnant, and that with proper care, he could regain his strength and energy.
Meanwhile, Damien and his team had taken Martha to their headquarters, a secret facility where they dealt with individuals who thought they were above the law. Martha was in for a month of torture before she would be taken to court to face justice.
As for the two men who had been under Shadow 3's care, they were barely recognizable. Shadow 3 had cut off their ears and lips, leaving them with a horrifying appearance. He had also removed several of their teeth, leaving them with only the basics for chewing.
Martha's wrist had been cut off, a brutal punishment for her crimes. The message was clear: since she didn't know the value of a full hand, she didn't deserve to have one.
Mark shuddered at the thought of the brutal punishments being meted out to those who had harmed Liam and other Gers. He knew that it was all part of the process of bringing them to justice, but it still made him uncomfortable.
All he could do was focus on Liam's recovery, and make sure that he received the best care possible. He took Liam's hand in his, holding it gently as he whispered words of encouragement. "You're safe now, Liam. You're safe, and I'm here for you."
Mark woke up with a start, his heart racing as he heard Liam's painful groans. He had been living in the hospital for a month, waiting for Liam to wake up from his coma. And now, it seemed like that day had finally arrived.
But as Mark looked at Liam, he saw the pain etched on his face. Liam's eyes were scrunched up, and he was clutching his lower belly. Mark felt a wave of confusion wash over him. He was happy that Liam was awake, but he was also worried about the pain Liam was in.
Damien, who had been visiting the hospital regularly, quickly sprang into action. He called the doctors, who rushed into the room. They quickly assessed the situation and decided to take Liam to the labor room.
As they wheeled Liam out of the room, he didn't stop calling out for Mark. He was scared, and he didn't want Mark to leave his side. Mark quickly followed, holding Liam's hand and trying to reassure him.
"It's okay, Liam," Mark said, trying to keep his voice calm. "I'm here. I'm not going anywhere."
Liam's grip on Mark's hand tightened, and he looked up at Mark with pleading eyes. Mark could see the fear and uncertainty in Liam's eyes, and it broke his heart.
As they reached the labor room, the doctors quickly got to work. Mark stood by Liam's side, holding his hand and coaching him through the contractions.
It was going to be a long and difficult process, but Mark was determined to be there for Liam every step of the way.