"Lay down, luv. I got this."

If anything was quick, it was moving in with Simon two months into your relationship. You hadn't planned on it, you'd wanted to wait until the lease on your studio in the next neighborhood was up to the end before thinking about taking such a big step as moving in together.

But it happened quickly. Forced, even.

Simon's house was closer to the clinic, and considering that your surgery scar was located at the bottom of your back, any thought of sleeping on your back or even sitting was like hell. You needed someone by your side to help you through this month of recovery, to be there for you, and to assist with your bandages.

And Simon took on that responsibility. So, immediately after the hospital, he took you to his place.

"It's so awkward that you see my ass every day." You chuckled as you lay on the stomach so Simon could tend to your stitches.

You tried to make jokes, but you were really embarrassed. You were walking like a penguin, waddling from one foot to the other, and needed a constant help to go to the bathroom and take a shower. But Simon was there. And he wasn't crossed out.

"I don't mind. As long as yer ass doesn't hurt and ya feel good."

It was a real step forward in your relationship. Simon took care of you, and all you could do was moan quietly when the painkillers didn't work. But it would pass. The recovery was going to be a long one, but it was on the right track with a gentle person by your side.

With him.