Page 43 of Spooks & Specters

Kage raised an eyebrow but didn’t say anything.

“You seem tired,” Terry said. “Let’s not overdo it on your first time. Now that you can shift, you’re welcome to whenever you want. Why don’t you change back, and I’ll fix us something for lunch?”

Axel wandered into his room. He shifted and tried not to bitch at how much his body hurt from that. It was ridiculous. He threw on his clothes quickly.

“I’m dressed. You guys can come back in,” Axel said.

Kage followed Terry back into the room.

Feeling a little lightheaded, Axel sat on his bed. As he ran his hand through his hair, he noticed it trembled. Quickly he dropped it to his lap.

“May I check you over again?” Terry asked.

“Sure.”

“All seems to be fine,” Terry said after he finished up. “I know weres usually need to eat after a shift, so why don’t I go get your lunch?”

“That would be great. Thanks. I’m actually kind of hungry.”

“Good. That’s a good sign. I’ll be right back.” Terry took to the shadows.

Axel did need the calories, but he also figured Terry was giving him and Kage a moment to speak privately.

Kage stared at Axel. “Are you okay?” he finally asked.

“That took more out of me than I was expecting.” Axel shook his head. “It’s ridiculous how weak I am.” He held his hand up, which was still trembling.

“It’s going to take time. You didn’t get in this condition overnight and you’re not going to get out of it overnight.” Kage moved to the small sitting area in Axel’s room, where a glass of water sat on a table. Picking it up, Kage brought it to Axel.

“Thanks.” Axel took several big gulps. There was an overbed table next to him, and he put the glass on it. “I know it’s going to take time. I just hate being weak.”

“I don’t know of anybody who likes it, but I understand what you’re saying,” Kage said, standing next to the bed. “As soon as you’re able, Austin and I will help you move into your new apartment.”

Axel exhaled tiredly. “Are you sure you want to do that?”

“It’s already been decided. We’ve talked about this, Axel.” Kage rested his hand on Axel’s shoulder and squeezed gently. “Are you having second thoughts?”

Axel looked up. “I know you offered, but I don’t want to take advantage.”

Removing his hand, Kage sat down next to Axel on the hospital bed. “Believe me, you’re not.”

“I just want to make sure. I do appreciate it, though.” It hurt his pride, but at this point, beggars couldn’t be choosers. He needed help, and he knew it.

“It’s not a problem. We both want you to get better.”

“Although the gods only know why.”

Before Kage could respond, Terry popped back into the room with his and Axel’s lunch.

“That smells delicious,” Kage said, standing. “I’m going to go so you two can eat. I’ll talk to you later, Axel.”

“I’ll be here,” Axel joked. Because really, where else would he be?

“See you later, Doc Terry.”

“Have a good day, Elder.”

Kage stepped into the shadows.

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