Page 43 of Something to Believe In
His face scrunched up. "Well, shit. I thought I was above that."
She chuckled. It hurt slightly, and she stopped. But she managed a smile. "I think you are."
She saw him swallow, and his face grew serious. "We need to have a meeting with Tony, Mitch, and Jami. Security for our shows and at our homes will need to be strengthened."
"And my apartment."
He shook his head slowly. "Move out. This is a sign. Move in with me so we can stay safe together, work together, and be together every day."
"You may find every day with me boring."
"I don't think I will. At all. I've dreamed about it for years."
She smiled and stared into his eyes. Maybe it was a sign. But her common sense told her to give it some thought and not jump into it.
The doctor entered the room. "How are you feeling, Maddyn?"
"I'm good. Sore when I take a deep breath or laugh."
The doctor nodded. "That's normal. Bruising from the seatbelt and the phrenospasm." He paused. "Getting the wind knocked out of you. You'll be sore for a few days. You're in great physical condition, so you'll heal quickly."
She nodded. "Can I go home?"
"Yes. I don't see why not. I'll sign the release, and Destiny will go over the paperwork with you and get you out of here."
"Thank you."
The doctor left the room, and Axel squeezed her hand. "I'm going to call Mitch now to arrange security at the house tonight. We both need rest and peace of mind."
She nodded. He kissed her lips softly, then pulled his phone from his pocket as he stepped from the room.
She practiced taking a slow-deep breath to see just how deep she could inhale. She had to sing tomorrow. It was a big deal, and she needed to be on top of her game.
A weight lowered itself onto her shoulders like a thick blanket, as she thought about being the one to disappoint the band just when they got a high-profile gig.
Axel entered the room; his eyes immediately sought hers. "Is everything okay? Do you feel alright?"
"Axel, what if I can't sing tomorrow?"
"Let's worry about it tomorrow. After a good night's sleep, let's reassess."
Her eyes watered, but she refused to give in to all the worry and fear. There was a crazy woman out there after them. There were worse things in life.
The nurse, Destiny, entered the room. "I have your discharge papers here. Let's get you ready to blow this place a goodbye kiss."
Mads chuckled.
Destiny took charge of the bed controls. "I'll lift you into a sitting position. Then we'll walk you to the bathroom. After that, I'll go over the paperwork. After you sign them, you'll be free to go."
She scooted to the edge of the bed. It was easier than she thought it would be, and it eased her mind a bit. Destiny stood next to the bed. "When you're ready, stand up."
She looked over at Axel, who stood looking helpless. She took a slow breath. Easing herself up, she stood with little pain. Pleased with herself, she smiled. "Whew."
Destiny chuckled. "As you move around, you'll find yourself less sore, which I know makes little sense, but your muscles get stiff when not used. When you're ready, let's stroll to the bathroom."
Maddyn took a step and, at first, was unsteady. But soon she realized she could walk without pain. She used the bathroom, washed her hands, and opened the door to leave. Destiny was nearby in case Maddyn needed her, but she didn't require any help.
She smiled at Axel when she neared the bed. His smile in return was incredible. He came to the side of the bed and sat next to her. He draped his arm around her shoulders and kissed her temple.
