Through the Standing Stones

Chapter 29

The following morning, Izzy was eager to get showered and dressed, all ready to head back home. The nurse came in to assist her, but Simon was having none of it and soon kicked the poor woman out. Grumbling to himself "How dare they offer to bathe my wife", much to Izzy's amusement.

Simon helped Izzy shower and dress, trying not to fuss over her too much as he checked her wounds with a worried expression. "Simon, you've seen gunshots before. They're healing fine" she said in reassurance as he placed fresh dressings on them.

"I understand my love. It still pains me to see you harmed" he replied.

Simon wheeled Izzy, in her wheelchair, out to his truck before picking her up and placing her in the passenger seat. Checking she was comfortable, they headed off, happy to finally be going home together.

No sooner had they arrived home, Simon insisted on carrying Izzy into the house and setting her on the sofa, while he rummaged around in the spare room, pulling out pillows and blankets and positioning them all around her, on the sofa.

Standing back and inspecting his efforts, he looked in confision at Izzy, when she started giggling "Is there a problem my love?" he asked full of concern.

"Come and sit down Simon" she ordered, patting the space beside her. Simon did as she asked and managed a smile when she put her arms around him and buried her face in his neck. Feeling himself relax with her so close to him, Simon enveloped her in his arms and kissed her forehead.

When Izzy started giggling again, Simon leaned back so he could see her face "Isabelle my love, what is causing you such amusement?" he asked.

Izzy looked up and kissed his chin "Simon, you've been so on edge since I've been in hospital. Now we're home, you're still anxious and fussing around" she said with a warm smile.

Simon sighed "You are correct my love. My worry and concern has been great, not only for your safety, but in being unable to care for you. It is my duty to care for you my love" he said softly.

Izzy smiled and caressed his cheek, before placing a soft kiss on his lips "Simon, you have been caring for me. After everything that happened, you were there when I was scared and when I had nightmares. You brought me my flower and made sure I was safe. I love you, you amazing husband" she replied, grinning as his cheeks tinged pink form her praise.

Simon made them both some food before, helping her freshen up and get into some warm night clothes. Lying in bed, cuddling close together, Simon smiled "This, my love, is my only wish. To have you here in my arms, safe" he whispered, kissing the top of her head.

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For the next week, Simon became obsessive about making sure Izzy was comfortable. Checking she wasn't hungry, wasn't too cold, wasn't too hot, wasn't thirsty, did she need some fresh air etc etc. Izzy loved all the attention and how affectionate Simon was being, but she was worried about him. The usually calm and chilled man, seemed to always be on edge, like he was expecting something bad to happen, at any minute. 

Wanting to soothe his concern, Izzy distracted him by saying she only wanted him to cuddle her. Instantly, he dropped what he was doing and settled himself on the sofa where she was resting. Wrapping his arms around her and pulling her close, Izzy sighed and smiled. She could practically hear his heart beating fast in his anxiety. 

"Simon honey, I got a message from the clinic about going for a scan tomorrow" she whispered.

Simon's breathing hitched at hearing the information "We will see the image of our child?" he asked quietly.