Chapter 13

“I was so proud I made it through all of it and got out alive, but it bit me on the ass in the end because I chose to do it, no one forced me. But it was either that or starve. Can you understand?” More tears ran down Julio’s cheeks. He sighed and closed his eyes.

“He shouldn’t be this aware with all that medication. I’m going out to the station.” Etienne rushed to the door to call the nurse then returned to Julio’s side.

Sean shook Julio’s shoulder and spoke firmly, “You are still here, and you need to fight to stay alive. Etienne, Donal, and I are staying with you. Alexei is leaving, and Armand is on his way into the unit. Alexei’s entire household is here as well as Etienne’s.”

“Why? I mean nothing to them.” Julio was getting more copacetic; his eyes cleared and he let go of Etienne’s hand.

Etienne leaned over the bed. “That’s where you would be wrong. I promise to tell you everything once you are well. Will you get better for me?”