Page 52 of Protecting his Heart

So, while he internally ranted about how he couldn’t work yet, he plotted. It was coming up on Valentine’s Day and though he didn’t agree with the hype there was every year, he would never let the day go without celebrating it. And therefore, he plotted and planned.

When he woke the following day with no tremor of pain or nausea, he almost wept with relief. He knew Brett wouldn’t allow him back to work that day, but the moment he entered the bathroom and switched on the light with no negative response, he called Evan.

“What’s wrong?” Evan said, racing into the room in just his boxers.

Owen grinned at him. “I’m okay.”

“Good, but why did you shout me?” He frowned.

“Because I’m okay,” he said more slowly, raising his eyebrows so Evan would get his meaning. He’d give him a break; hehadwoken him.

Evan cupped his face, looking into his eyes, checking his responses. “Any nausea?” Owen shook his head, relieved when the motion didn’t hurt. “Any pain?” He shook his head again. “What about the wound site itself?”

“It just aches, as any wound would.”

Evan grinned. “I’m glad. We’ll get that appointment with the doctor today and then you should be cleared for basic duty.”

Owen huffed. Basic duty meant anything that was inside Windsor Castle. He wouldn’t be going out on active duty until his wound had healed completely. Which he could understand.

He showered—with Evan helping—and grabbed some breakfast. Evan had called Dr Wallis, and they drove to the hospital that afternoon. Dr Wallis wouldn’t usually see patients who weren’t part of A&E, but he’d made an exception for them. While they waited for him, Owen caught up on his messages and emails, now that the screen didn’t burn his retinas, even on thehighest brightness. Evan had dropped back the sunglasses he’d borrowed for Owen. Hopefully, no one had come looking for them before he’d taken them back.

A knock sounded, and the door opened. “Good afternoon,” Dr Wallis said. “How are you feeling today?”

“Good. First day I’ve woken with no pain.”

“Glad to hear it. Let’s get you checked over so you can get out of here.”

He went through the normal examination, checking his eyes, his ears, his wound, asking questions and more. Eventually, he settled back into his chair.

“I don’t see any lingering effects of the concussion, so I believe you are well enough to resume your duties. Just remember, take it easy for the first few days, and the moment you have any pain, let me know so we can check you out. There are instances of delayed issues, so be cautious.”

Owen nodded. “Thank you. I will.”

Dr Wallis redressed his wound—he would need to keep the bandage on until it healed properly to stop the chance of infection. They said goodbye and drove home, but Owen stopped short of entering the place. “I’ve been cooped away for too long. Can we go to Book Drunk for a coffee?”

Evan smiled. “Sure.”

Owen threaded his fingers through Evan’s and led the way, enjoying the sun straining to reach them through the clouds. He glanced across at Windsor Castle as it came into view, being opposite Book Drunk as it was, and he paused, studying the surrounding buildings.

“Everything okay?” Evan asked.

Owen nodded. “I was expecting a little trepidation about being here, but I feel nothing except anger.” He turned and pointed at the building the police believed the shooter had been squattingin. “That’s where he was.” He sighed. “It could’ve ended so differently.”

“Don’t remind me,” Evan murmured, and Owen glanced at him.

“I’m sorry.” He repeated the words he’d said many times during the last few days.

Evan smiled. “You don’t need to be sorry for who you are. I wouldn’t have fallen in love with you if you weren’t.”

Owen chuckled. “Come on. I think it’s time I treated you to a large coffee for putting up with my grumpy ass.”

They’d had a regular roundabout of visitors recently: Dominic and Randall, Matteo, Sally, Nick, Felix, Brett. Freddie and Damon, even. But it was nice to get out of the house.

Entering Book Drunk, Owen’s stomach immediately growled as the scent of food hit him. It must’ve been fairly loud because Evan grinned at him. They headed for the counter, but when Oscar looked up and saw them, he dropped what he held and came running around the counter and threw his arms around Owen’s neck.

“I’ve been so worried! Are you okay?” He pulled back, staring at him. “You were so brave.”

Owen flushed, not used to being the centre of attention like that. He swallowed hard. “I’m okay now. Back to normal.”

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