“What did you do to me?” I asked.
“You were falling apart,” he said simply. “You needed rest, but whenever anyone suggested it, you shot them down fast. So I made the decision to sedate you, to force you to get some sleep.”
“You did what?”
“They also gave you an IV because you hadn’t been eating or drinking and you badly needed the hydration.”
The door opened again, and a man walked in, tray in hand. On it was a turkey sandwich and chips. He placed it on the bed beside me and then left.
Reluctantly I picked it up and took a big bite. It was dry, but still tasted delicious.
Then I noticed I wasn’t wearing my jeans or T-shirt.
“What’s going on?” I ground out.
John sighed. “You stunk, Kip.” He wrinkled his nose. “Like…reallybad. The nurses talked with me, and after you were sedated they changed you into some scrubs while they washed your clothes. Your stuff is in the cabinet next to the bed.”
I ran a hand over my face, noting how smooth the skin was.
“Youshavedme?”
“I did.” John didn’t show an ounce of remorse. “You’re one of mine, and if you aren’t taking care of yourself, then I have to do it for you.”
My anger bled out of me. He wasn’t being a dick—he was helping me stay strong for Mason.
“I’m sorry,” I said.
“Don’t be. I would have done the same if it was my wife or our kid. It shows me—the pack—the depths of your feelings for him. Plus, I owe Mason for not doing what I should have as a leader.” His face contorted. “I didn’t listen to him atall. I thought my way was the best, not caring for his feelings. I was willing to sacrifice his happiness for the pack, and that can’t happen. I profoundly regret that, and promise to make it up to him.”
“If he wakes up,” I said softly.
“He will. I swear it.” John sounded so earnest.
“I wouldn’t have to if you guys would shut up and let me rest.”
I was by his side in a heartbeat as John pressed the call button. “Mason? Baby?”
He was quiet for a few moments, then he opened his eyes slowly. “Kip?”
Hallefuckinglujah.
I clutched his hand.
John walked to the foot of the bed. “Hey, kid. How are you feeling?”
Mase tilted his head to look at John, his eyes unfocused. “Hey, Alpha. What are you doing here?” Then he blinked. “Wait. Where am I?”
“You’re in the hospital, Mason. Someone attacked you,” John informed him.
“Attacked me?!” His brow furrowed. “No, that can’t be right. I was weeding my tea plants and… and….” He turned his face toward me. “Huh. That’s weird. I can’t remember.”
I bent down and kissed him gently. “Oh, Mase.” My throat seized. “I thought I’d lost you.”
He tried to reach my face, but the tubes in his arms prevented him. “What’s happening?” he asked, a note of panic lacing his voice. “Why can’t I remember?”
“Kip?” John asked. “Doyouwant to tell him?”
“After the doctor says it’s okay.”
