REVENGE OF THE VAGABOND

CHAPTER 109

The atmosphere in the hospital room was tense as Oliver lay in his bed, his body bandaged and hurt from the gunshot wound inflicted on him by the kidnapper. His family and closed friends had gathered around him, grateful that he had come out the other side alive, but worried about how long it would take for him to heal.

As they sat there in silence, Oliver's step-brother, Carter, spoke up. "Oliver, I just wanted to say that I'm sorry for the way I've treated you in the past. I've been so caught up in my own issues that I never took the time to appreciate all that you've done for me and my family. You saved my son's life, and for that, I can never repay you."

Oliver was surprised by Carter's words, but he appreciated the sentiment. "Thank you, Carter. I don't hold anything against you. I was just doing what I had to do to protect Carson."

Carter nodded. "I know, but that doesn't mean I can't be grateful. You risked your life for my family, and I'll never forget that."

As they talked, C