It was then that Gerald truly understood.
This was no longer merely about a child.
It was about a father.
Miriam gently adjusted Ethan's blanket before leaning down to brush a kiss across his forehead.
"Rest," she whispered softly, her voice thick with emotion. "We'll bring Cooper home."
Gerald stepped closer and rested a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"We'll contact you the moment we arrive in Nightshade."
She nodded, though her eyes never left Ethan.
"Be careful."
"I will."
Without another word, Gerald turned and walked toward the door, Liam falling into step beside him.
Father and son made their way swiftly through the hospital corridors, their footsteps echoing across the polished floors. Nurses and physicians respectfully stepped aside as they passed, instinctively sensing the urgency surrounding the two Alphas.
Outside, several black SUVs were already waiting with their engines running, while a squad of Shadow Guards stood at attention beside the vehicles.
