Page 69 of Tainted Empire

Gabriette, standing close by, interjects with a question that’s clearly been on her mind. “Is there a chance we can take him home? He’d be more comfortable there, and I can arrange for any necessary medical equipment and care.”

The doctor pauses, considering her request, then shakes his head. “I understand your concern, but I strongly advise against it. Mikhail needs to be here for observation. We need to monitor his recovery closely to ensure there are no unforeseen complications. It’s best for him to stay in the hospital where we can provide immediate care if needed.”

I can feel the irritation bubbling up inside me. “I don’t need to be fucking babysat,” I grumble, frustrated at the thought of being cooped up in the hospital any longer.

My father, standing by the doorway, gives me a sharp look. “Mikhail, calm down. Dr Simeon is an expert in his field; the best. Don’t make his job harder.”

I shoot him a glare but bite back any further retorts. I know he’s right, but it doesn’t quell the irritation simmering inside me. Being stuck in this hospital, vulnerable and dependent, it’s like a cage, and I hate it.

Gabriette reaches for my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “It’s for the best, Mikhail. We need you to get better, no matter how long it takes.”

The doctor, unfazed by my outburst, continues. “We’ll reassess in a few days. If your recovery continues at this pace, we can discuss the possibility of home care then.”

Gabriette nods, accepting the doctor’s verdict, even if I don’t like it. “Thank you, Doctor. We just want what’s best for him.”

As the doctor leaves, my father turns to me, his expression a mix of concern and admonishment. “You need to focus on getting better, Mischa. This impatience won’t speed up your recovery.”

I know he’s right, but it doesn’t make the situation any less frustrating. Lying here, dependent on others, it’s not where I want to be. But I also know that getting angry won’t change a damn thing. For now, I have to play by the rules, even if I hate every minute of it.

I settle back against the pillows, trying to find a comfortable position. “Yeah, I get it. Just... not a fan of hospitals, that’s all.”

My father lingers for a moment, his gaze on me both stern and concerned. “Get some rest, son. We’ll handle things outside. You just focus on getting better.”

I let out a frustrated sigh, feeling cornered. “I know, Pappa, but this is bullshit. I can’t just lie here while the world goes on without me.”

Gabriette leans in closer, her voice soothing yet firm. “Mikhail, we’re handling things outside. Right now, you need to focus on getting better. That’s what’s important.”

My father nods in agreement. “She’s right. You’ve got a strong team out there, and Gabriette’s more than capable of holding the fort.”

I run a hand through my hair, the frustration simmering just below the surface. “I just hate feeling so damn useless.”

Mikhail Baranov; useless and incapacitated. My enemies must be having a field day.

Gabriette smiles, a hint of mischief in her eyes. “Well, think of it as a well-deserved break. You’ve been running on all cylinders for too long.”

I can’t help but crack a smile at her attempt to lighten the mood. “A ‘break’ in a hospital bed. Just what I always wanted.”

My father chuckles, the tension in the room easing slightly. “You always did have a knack for finding trouble, son. But you also have a knack for getting out of it. This time is no different.”

As he leaves, I’m left with a sense of begrudging acceptance. Gabriette’s right, and so is my father. I need to be patient, to trust in the people I’ve surrounded myself with. Gabriette’s been handling things well from what I’ve heard; I need to let her take the reins while I recover.

“Thank you, Malyshka,” I say, reaching for her hand. “For everything. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

She squeezes my hand gently. “You don’t have to do anything without me, Mikhail. We’re in this together, remember?”

Her words are a comfort, a reminder that no matter what challenges we face, we face them as a team. And as much as I hate to admit it, this time, my biggest challenge is just to rest and heal.

Chapter 36

Mikhail

As I lie in the hospital bed, gradually regaining my strength, the door opens and Ivan, Lee, and my father walk in. They’re a sight for sore eyes, a reminder of the world I’ve been absent from for too long.

“About time you all showed up,” I say, trying to inject some humor into my voice, but the effort drains me more than I care to admit.

Ivan, my Brigadier, steps forward, his usual stoic expression in place. “We’ve got updates, bossman. A lot has happened while you’ve been out.”

“Alright, give it to me straight,” I say, propping myself up as best as I can. “What’s been happening out there?”

---