Chapter 23

Gabriel spent some time recovering in the hospital before finally leaving in a wheelchair. Jamie and Hannah wheeled him to the train station. He'd lost count of how many tickets he'd bought to Northpoint, but he knew this would be the last time. It was like the kids had grown up overnight. They were quieter and more mature, helping Gabriel onto the train without a fuss. When they arrived at Northpoint Horizon Network, it was just before work started. Eliana was walking in with a script in her hands, reviewing her notes. Jamie waved from a distance. "Mom!" Eliana paused, but still walked over. She'd never been one to run from things. No matter how many times it took, she would always make things clear with Gabriel. But this time, Gabriel looked as if he'd aged a decade. He managed a bitter smile and pointed to his legs. "They had to be amputated. I'll never be a soldier again." Eliana looked at him, nodded, and said nothing. Suddenly, it was like Gabriel couldn't hold anything