Hello @sonofremi,
Pixabay images that have a watermark on them are not free (if it says iStock). This can be confusing but only the images that are designated as free can be used without restriction. There are also great images available on unsplash. I understand Pexels has free images, but have never used this source myself. I have read your story and will be happy to comment once you have switched the image out.

Thank you very much!