The Final Stalk

Days passing

Two days later, the hospital room buzzes with activity as nurses and doctors come and go, checking Ash's progress. Slowly but surely, he regains strength, his body healing under the attentive care of his medical staff.

As the second day draws to a close, Ash manages to sit up on his own, supported by pillows. The bandages wrapping his torso are replaced with fresh ones, a sign of his steady recovery.
"Looks like someone's ready to kick some ass soon," Luca jokes, trying to lighten the mood. But even his teasing tone can't hide the concern etched on his face.

Izzy watches Ash with a mixture of pride and worry, her hands clasped tightly in her lap. "Just take it slow, okay?" she pleads, her voice gentle but firm.

Despite the pain still throbbing in his chest and side, Ash manages a weak smile, his eyes locking onto Izzy's. "Don't worry," he wheezes out, his voice hoarse but determined. "I'm not going anywhere without you."
Ash's declaration fills the room with a quiet intensity, a vow spoken not just to Izzy but also to himself.

Over the next few days, Ash's condition improves steadily, much to the delight of everyone around him. His physical therapist helps him regain mobility, while his doctor monitors his progress closely.

On the sixth day after his surgery, Ash finally manages to stand up on his own, albeit with the support of Luca and Izzy. His face is flushed with exertion, but there's a triumphant sparkle in his eyes.

"See?" he pants, looking at Izzy with a grin that could melt ice.* "Told ya I wasn't going anywhere."

Izzy beams at Ash, her heart swelling with pride and affection. She wraps her arms around him, holding him close as he leans into her embrace.
"You did it, my love," she murmurs, her voice filled with wonder and adoration. "You're still stronger than ever."

Luca claps Ash on the back, a broad smile stretching across his face. "Welcome back, brother. We thought we lost you for a while there."

The trio shares a laugh, the tension and fear of the past week dissipating in the face of their collective triumph. As Ash rests against Izzy, his bandaged side pressed against hers, they know that whatever challenges lay ahead, they would face them together.