Chapter .45.

They say war is hell, but, darling, true

hell begins when the battle ends and you're

the only one whose hands still drip red.

- the real war rages in your heart; it always has . j.s.

***

I can't go in.

The door is closed in front of me, blocking my access, but it's not the wood that prevents me from entering. My forehead leans forward, pressing against the frame as I take in the sound.

Orion's cries can be heard.

Faint.

Muffled.

Maybe he had a pillow pressed to his cheek, but I knew better.

Judging but the layer of skin I had seen him wear this morning, it was probably bloody knuckles that were clenched down tight in his teeth while he cried.

I should go in.

I should go in.

The knob stares in front of me, waiting.