Page 23 of No Fear

“Coronado. And no, no girl. When I joined the Navy, a relationship wasn’t really a priority. Plus, the deployments were long. Can be tough.”

“And now?” Maddie sat down across from him, keeping an eye on Andrew.

Donnie sipped his beer. “Guess I haven’t met the right one.”

“What happened, Donnie? Why did you leave?” she asked quietly.

He stared at his beer. “It seemed like the only option. It hurt too much being here. Everything reminded me of him.” A small part of the truth.

“We were all hurting. But we didn't run away. We stayed and helped each other through it.”

He raised his eyes to meet hers. “You don’t understand. I couldn't stay and face everyone, ...” He stopped himself before saying too much.

“Why?” Maddie frowned at him.

“It doesn’t matter now. I can't change my decision.”

Maddie shook her head. “You told Charlie you liked her. Told her you wanted to date her. Made out with her. Then her brother, your best friend is killed, and you take off. I don’t understand how you could do that to her.”

Donnie sighed. What could he say? He wasn’t going to share he blamed himself for Nate’s death. It still made his heart ache every time he thought about it.

“There’s something you’re not telling me.” She looked at him quizzically. The woman was far too insightful.

“I just wish I’d handled things differently that night.”

“Like not kissed Charlie?”

He didn’t answer. He would never regret kissing Charlie but if he hadn’t? If he had left? Nate might still be alive.

Maddie took a sip from her soda can. “So, what are you going to do about Charlie?”

“I meant what I said. I want to talk to her and try to explain. But she obviously doesn’t want to. I can’t force her. Maybe it’s best I just leave.”

“So, you’re giving up after one attempt? I thought you Navy boys never quit?”

“Maddie. She’s gone. I’m heading back to Coronado in a couple of days. I don’t know when I will have more free time.”

“Sounds like a bunch of excuses to me.”

“If she was here today, I would have spoken to her. I have no idea where she is and I’m sure she’s busy with wedding plans.”

“I wouldn't count on it.”

Maddie mumbled the comment, but Donnie heard it.

“She’s marrying Simon Radwell, right? That kind of surprised me, but I guess we all grew up.”

Now Maddie averted her gaze, staring at her soda can.

“Maddie?”

She looked at him but didn’t speak.

“Tell me about Simon. I know he’s in the family real estate business.”

“Yeah, he is. Will be taking over the company from his dad soon. He’s loaded. You know that. I just...”

“Just what?” Why had his chest gone tight? Foreboding ran through his veins.