I try to suppress a smile and stow my attitude. “We’re already late, babe. To get across town we needed to leave ten minutes ago. You’re supposed to be at physical therapy in fifteen and your orthopedic surgeon appointment is right after.”

Jackson’s been able to put small amounts of pressure on his leg with the use of his walker and his arm is out of the sling now. However, since he’s found his sexual appetite again—not that he ever really lost it—I worry he’s doing too much. I took off work today to go with him and make sure he’s not causing more damage.

“If you weren’t so damn sexy I would’ve been ready earlier,” he smirks and rolls the walker over. “I get distracted.”

Laughing and rolling my eyes, I grab my bag. “Let’s go, no more distractions for you.”

We arrive at the appointment late. They get him started on a few exercises while I stand there and watch him. He pushes himself hard and they’re constantly telling him to take it easy. At least I’m not the only one he gives a hard time about what he’s capable of. Typical man.

“Jackson, you did well, but I really need you to dial it down a notch,” the physical therapist, Christy, chides him.

“I am so dialed down.”

“Look, I know this is difficult and you’re doing exceptionally well considering you’re only a few weeks in, but you will set yourself back,” she explains.

“Nah, I’m good.”

“You’re exasperating.”

“Welcome to my world,” I say walking up behind him and he huffs.

Jackson wipes the sweat from his forehead. “Another woman to boss me around.”

Christy stands there and fixes her ponytail. She’s kind but very firm. When I first met her, I wasn’t sure if she’d be able to handle him. She’s only about four-foot-eleven but she’s been doing this for at least twenty years. Her height is an illusion because her attitude is about six-foot-five. Jackson towers over her but I’m pretty sure she could make him cower.

“I won’t put up with your crap. I’ll call the doctor and let him know you’re pushing too hard. Then he’ll put you back in that sling and we’ll say no weight bearing at all.” She crosses her arms as I watch the impending duel unfold.

“You wouldn’t.” He pushes himself so he’s taller.

Christy doesn’t miss a beat, taking a step forward and glaring at him playfully. “Try me, soldier.”

“Sailor.”

“Semantics.”

I laugh at the two of them fighting for the alpha dog position. “My money’s on Christy.”

She smiles and nods in solidarity. “I like this one.”

“She’s all right,” Jackson jokes.

“Don’t let him kid you, he loves me.”

Jackson grabs me and kisses the side of my head. “I do.”

“Enough mushy stuff.” Christy turns to Jackson and sighs. “You’re doing more than most of my patients are able to, but that’s because of your physical condition prior to the injury. You were in top form and you’re much stronger on your worst day than others on their best day.”

His smile and eyes brighten. “See?”

“Before you bask in your brilliance, it doesn’t mean that you can push too hard. You’re not allowed to put pressure on your arm. You need to keep your weight supported, so no walking. The muscles have to heal.”

I turn and smirk. “See? I’ll be sure to mention this to the surgeon.”

“I’ll see you next week.” She raises a brow and gives him a pointed look.

He gives her a salute. “Don’t worry, Christy.” Jackson wraps his arm around my waist. “I always behave.”

She walks away shaking her head.

We arrive at the surgeon’s office and once we get settled in the examination room to wait, Jackson and I talk about the launch plans.

“So, do we have to have this stupid party after?”

I huff and put my hands over my face, “I can’t make you, but I think it’s a good thing for the shareholders to see you. Alive.”

“I’m still going to be in this fucking walker. I really don’t think that’s showing such a clear picture,” he complains.

We’ve been over this at least five times. He argues his side. I argue mine. In the end I usually win, but he keeps at it.

“I think this is the best thing for Raven. I feel it will show strength, that even though you were knocked down you were able to rise up.”

Jackson grumbles but before he can really put up a big fight, Dr. Flores enters.

“Mr. Cole.” He shakes Jackson’s hand. “Ms. Pope, great to see you both.”

“Doctor, can you please write me a note that it’s against the best interests of my health to go to any work parties.”

“Ass,” I reply before the doctor can give him a chance.

“I don’t know that it’s against the best interests of your healing as much as it’s against the best interests of aggravating her.” They smile and look over at me.

I take a measured breath before releasing it. “I think you should tread careful there, darling,” I say sarcastically.

“Let’s take a look at your stitches and how everything’s healing, shall we?” The doctor quickly intervenes and Jackson gives me a coy look.

Dr. Flores is happy with how his incisions are healing.

“Any questions?”

Jackson speaks first, “I want to know when I can start working out again?”

“Jackson, it’s been a few weeks since the shooting. I know you’re anxious, but it’ll be up to your physical therapist.”

“So that’s never. What about other activity?” Jackson’s smirk is evident and so is his meaning.

Dr. Flores chuckles, “You should be cleared for other activity as long as you don’t get crazy.”

I blush and look at Jackson as the grin spreads across his face. “Wasn’t waiting for that all clear, Doc.”

“Most patients never listen to that one.” He grins and I want to die.

This is the most embarrassing conversation I’ve ever had. The rest of the appointment goes on without any further blushing. We’ll return in another few weeks and at that point he should only have to go to physical therapy.

“Are you going in to work?” Jackson asks on our way back to the apartment.

“I should. I have a lot to take care of.”

My phone rings and it’s Ashton.

“Hey,” I say answering the phone.

“Hey, I’m in the area of your office. Wanna grab lunch?” she asks.

I look at Jackson and he smiles apparently hearing her through the line.

“Maybe I can swing it. I was heading in to work anyway.”

“Oh, did you actually take a day off?” her voice rises in surprise.

Why does everyone think all I do is work?

“No, Jackson had a few appointments and I wanted to talk to his physical therapist. According to Captain America over here, he was able to start walking without his cane.” I look at Jackson with narrowed eyes. “It appears someone wasn’t very forthcoming.”

“You only heard what you wanted to hear,” Jackson speaks up.