HYBRIDS (l.p.)

Chapter 16 // Little Bird

SAM POV

A soft knock at the door barely interrupts my delirious gaze out the window. Since I hit this bed last night after nearly killing my best friend, I haven't moved a single muscle.

"Usually I don't let myself in, but under these strange circumstances I believe it is warranted."

I'm not even surprised that it is Philip in my room rather than Liam because what is the norm anymore?

"Hmm." He hums. "You shall never cry alone again."

I huff. "That's a freaking shame."

He laughs sitting on the bed next to me. "Why do you judge Liam so harshly?"

"Because he lies."

"Did you happen to wonder that quite possibly he does that to protect you?"

"No." I quickly zip. "In world full of lies the last thing I needed was my best friend becoming a casualty."

"Friend or more?" Philip pokes.

I glare at him from where I lay. He gives me a percolate smirk before putting out his hand.

"I'd like to show you something, if you'll have it, that is?"

I sit up a bit curious as to where he is taking me. "Where are we going?"

"Many places." He smiles. "May I have your hand please?"

I hesitate slowly placing my hand in his.

Instantly I'm taking back, whirling through the time of the past. Philip and I stand in an operating room when things finally come to light.

"Philip!" I gasp. "They'll see us!"

He laughs. "No, little bird. These are just slideshows of what was. They have no perception of us being here."

I walk closer to the operating table horrified at what I see.

"Liam!" I gasp. "Why are you showing me this?"

"I'm only helping you understand his reasonings."

Liam's yelps fill the room as that terrifying day pours back in. I close my eyes tight trying to block my tears.

"Let's move forth." Philip calmly says as the scene changes in front of us.

Move soldier! Do you want to be the best? Then you need to work hard and work smart!

Sir, yes sir!

Imagines of Liam's time in the brigade pass before me. His strengths, his struggles, his rewards, and his punishments.

"One more thing." Philip speaks solemnly.

I nod waiting for the next scene to appear.

The compound in Arizona resolves in front of me and I already know where this is heading. I can see myself standing before Trek as Liam moves forward from the group. The mash up everyone's shouting voices grows louder until Liam's voice breaks through.

"Kill me, kill me please. Sam, God dammit. Shoot me. What is she waiting--"

I cover my mouth in fear of screaming out, ripped harshly from the scene as the gunshot rang out.

"Perhaps now you understand that he was once molded into an emotionless killing machine hence his harsh demeanor."

I slowly move my hands away from my mouth, looking at Philip.