Rhage: Say Goodbye

***FROM RHAGE'S POV***

When I see Hadley holding our son, something happens to me. There's a person that exists that is here because of me. Wow, I have never felt this kind of love, wonderment, and pride, and I've been around for a long time.

Hadley is laying down and Elijah is sleeping as well when my phone rings. It's Wrath.
Wrath: Hey man, heard the baby was born. When are you leaving?
Me: Dude, I've been thinking about it, I want to stay.
Wrath: (is silent for a moment) You know you can't do that, Brother.
Me: Why not? I'm happy here. You should see your kids, they're incredible...my son...he's my life...and Hadley...Hadley is...
Wrath: I know, Rhage, believe me, I know, but you don't belong there. Don't you think it was hard for me to leave those babies?
Me: I don't know how you found the strength.
Wrath: ...I don't either, but you will too.
Me: Yeah...I know.

We got off the phone and I stood there for awhile, until I worked up the courage to do what I really didn't want to do.

I walked quietly into Hadley's bedroom. She was taking a nap and she looked like an angel.
I picked up Elijah, felt his warm, infant body snuggle close to me for the last time. It was too much to take.

Before I left, I helped the quints with their birthdays. I felt better leaving knowing Hadley would have plenty of help with Elijah.

Mason is starting to look like Wrath. He reminds me of my brother and how much I really need to get home.

Jules ages up to be a tough one, which is good, I have absolute faith that if anyone messes with her, she will quickly put them in their place.

Isobel looks a lot like her mother, but she has this sneaky side to her. She is also stubborn, she doesn't listen to anyone.

Rose has the biggest heart I've ever seen. I know she will fill her mother's life with warmth and love.

Logan is a little bit scrawny for a warrior's son, I've eaten guys like him for breakfast, but he has a solid head on his shoulders. I'm sure he will go far.

I don't want to wake Hadley before I leave, but I can't help but lean down and kiss her forehead. Her eyelids flutter for a second, but then she goes back to sleep. I am going to miss her terribly, but I do know this is for the best. I just didn't expect the feelings I have for her, the life she has, my son, and the rest of her family to be so strong.

I compose myself as my ride shows up. The last thing the world needs is a weepy warrior.