Page 101 of No Fear

“Down, girl,” Sophie said fanning her with a menu.

Kelly raised a glass. “To our men and their hot as hell bodies.”

The ladies toasted loudly, and Charlie couldn't help but smile. They really were a close-knit bunch like Mackie had said. She was grateful to be invited to join this little group, if only for this evening. It was like she’d finally been accepted into a cool girl club.

“Was Donnie as hot in high school?” Sophie asked before taking a bite of her pasta.

“Yes. He and my brother Nate were on the football team. They were best friends. That’s how I know Donnie. He was over at our house a lot.”

“Were best friends? Did they have a falling out?” Diane asked gently.

“Nate died in a car accident when he was nineteen,” The table fell silent.

Sophie put down her fork. “I’m sorry. That must have been terrible for you.”

Charlie’s eyes filled with tears. It was impossible to stop them when she thought about Nate.

“You don't have to talk about it, Charlie, but we’re here if you want to.” Diane passed her a napkin.

“Donnie left right after Nate’s funeral, and I didn’t see him again until a few weeks ago.” She shook her head, dabbing her eyes and forcing a small smile. “Like I said. It’s complicated.”

She wanted to tell them. Wanted to know what they really thought about Donnie. Wanted to know what Donnie was like now. She wanted all the information they could give her. Taking a breath, she looked around the table at her new friends.

Then she told them everything.

Nobody interrupted, letting her talk. And boy did she talk. She told them about the bullying, her crush on Donnie, and the way he and Nate always stood up for her. She talked about how close they all were. She told them about that night and asking Donnie to take her virginity. Then came the word about the car crash, and the funeral. And Donnie leaving. She even told them about Simon, about asking Donnie again for sex.

She told them everything, right up to her arriving here in Coronado.

Somewhere during her outpouring another margarita had appeared before her. When she stopped talking, she picked up the glass and took a long gulp.

“I’m sorry. You really didn't need to hear all that from someone you just met.” She blamed the alcohol for her loose tongue. What was she thinking?

“You needed to say it. We’re honored you trust us enough to share your story.” Sophie offered a warm smile.

“Absolutely. Don't apologize,” Kelly said.

“And holy shit, girl. That’s some story.” Mira raised her glass.

Charlie relaxed, toasting again with these amazing women.

“So, you came here as soon as you knew Donnie was hurt. You obviously care about him a lot,” Diane said.

Charlie nodded. “I do.”

“You love him,” Kelly said from opposite her.

Charlie nodded again. She did. Even as he was now. Scared, moody. She didn't care. “I do. It’s all messed up. He’s hurt, and I hate seeing him like this. I don't know what to say or do. I want to help him, but I’m scared.” She looked away sheepishly.

The table was quiet again.

“Scared he’ll leave again. Hurt you again?” Diane asked.

Aware everyone was staring at her; Charlie looked back at them and nodded slowly.

“Which sounds terrible, but I’m so scared of getting too close and he breaks my heart again. I honestly don't care about how much sight he gets back. I know we can handle that together. I can even handle his moods. But what if he gets bored of me? What if he just leaves again? Or tells me to go? I wouldn’t get past it. Not a second time.”

“I think it’s perfectly understandable that you’re scared,” Mira said.