Page 39 of Andrew’s Outback Love

The team knew about Drew’s arm. I’d sneaked out a little while ago, telling Drew I’d needed to use the ladies room and called James to give him an update.

“Like I’ve been fucked over by a truck but I’m told I’ll live.”

“Of course, you will. According to the doctor, you’ll be good as new in a few weeks.” The others nodded at Finn’s words.

“Maybe,” Drew whispered.

It was obvious that he wasn’t feeling himself and Ruby made the call he needed some time alone with me. Now they’d seen for themselves that Drew was alive and kicking, they all said their goodbyes, wished him well and said they’d catch up again in the near future. They were all due to fly out early the next day. I’d cancelled both mine and Drew’s flights. I would stay as long as I was needed.

Once everyone left, Drew held out one arm.

“Come and lie with me.”

“It’s against hospital rules.”

“Fuck, hospital rules. I need to hold you.”

I didn’t have the heart to argue so, after removing my shoes, I climbed onto the bed and snuggled into his chest, being careful to avoid his heavily bandaged shoulder. The hard muscles beneath my head vibrated with every beat of his heart. I placed my hand over his numb one and gently massaged, encouraging the vessels and nerves to respond. Apart from a few involuntary twitches, there was nothing and when I glanced up to see if Drew was able to feel my touch, I saw he’d fallen asleep. I settled back against his smooth, warm skin and within minutes, my eyelids became heavy and I drifted off.

***

THE NEXT FEW DAYS PASSED in a blur. I was either at the hospital with Drew or catching some rest at the hotel where I’d managed to extend my stay. Exhaustion was catching up with me and I looked forward to being able to take him home. I’d organized to stay with him in Sydney so I could accompany him to his appointments and help around the apartment. I was rather looking forward to playing house with him for a few weeks. My RFDS boss – Neil, had been incredibly understanding when I’d said I would work off my months’ notice once Drew was back on his feet. He’d told me that getting ‘their man’ back on his feet was to be considered as working for them, arguing he was a valuable member of their staff. It effectively meant, I probably wouldn’t be returning to Dubbo. Drew still had no sensation or feeling in his arm and doctors had advised his recovery could take up to six weeks and he shouldn’t be worried at this point. I would stay by his side for however long it took.

I pushed open the door to find Drew dressed, his arm in a sling, a small bag with his belongings by the side of the wheelchair he was seated in. He looked good enough to eat but what really made my heart tick up a few beats was the smile on his face.

“You’re coming home?”

He nodded, the smile firmly in place.

“Come here.”

His free arm was outstretched and I willingly walked into him. He eased me onto his lap and took my lips in a soul deep kiss. I could barely breathe when he finally released me.

“You’re obviously happy to be getting out of here.”

“I am but most of all, I have good news.”

The smile was back on his face.

“Yes?”

“I can feel the top of my arm and my hand is tingling like fucking crazy. I think it’s going to be okay.”

I pushed against him and crashed my lips down on his. Our kiss was anything but gentle. Every emotion we’d felt over the past days was released and desperation for each other took over. When I sat back, Drew’s eyes were clouded with want.

“I’m so happy for you, Drew. The doctor did say it would come back, it just took a little longer than expected.”

“And scared the fucking life out of me in the process.”

We were able to laugh now the worst appeared to be over. Before I could steal another kiss, the door was pushed open and a nurse entered the room.

“Dr. Lowman, you’re ready to leave us.”

“I am.”

The nurse turned to me. “Is your car downstairs?”

“Yes, the car I hired is in the parking lot.”