Page 51 of No Fear

“I do. But the kitchen is busy, I offered to run this one up. Enjoy, my friends.”

“Thanks, man. Appreciate it.” Donnie pulled cash from his pocket and handed it to him.

“Thank you. If you two need anything else, you let me know.”

Donnie lifted the two plate covers to reveal burgers and fries. “Hungry?”

“When did you order that?” Charlie stared at the food.

“When you were in the bathroom. You need to eat.”

She stood up and picked a fry up off the plate. “Thank you.” She smiled the first genuine smile he’d seen since she knocked on his door. “I guess I don’t need to worry about the wedding dress fitting anymore.”

As they ate, they chatted about safer topics. She told him more about her work and he told her a little about what he did. They shared some memories of Nate and laughed over some of the good times. They both steered clear of any conversation regarding Simon. Suddenly, it was eleven o’clock and Charlie was yawning.

“I think it’s time I walked you back to your room,” he said, even though he didn’t want to.

“You don't have to walk me back. I can manage all by myself.”

“I know. But I want to.”

He thought she was going to protest, but she didn’t. Standing, she said, “Come on then, Mister Chivalrous. I need my bed.”

They walked side by side to the elevator. She looked lost and vulnerable. Donnie had to stop himself from reaching for her hand to reassure her she was going to get through this.

“Thank you for tonight, Donnie. I’m sorry our plans got messed up.”

“You’re welcome. I still got to spend time with you and have dinner. Are we still on for the CN Tower tomorrow? I’d understand if you’re not.”

“No. I’d like to go. Company would be good.”

She smiled at him as the elevator reached her floor, and they stepped off.

“Want to meet downstairs in the lobby for eight?” he asked.

“Um. Can we make it nine. I’ve had wine.”

“Of course. Later if you prefer.”

“No. You’re leaving tomorrow. Nine will be good. I want to make the most of the time we have left.”

Her words warmed him. They’d come a long way in a day.

They’d reached her door, and she slid her keycard in to open it, turning to face him.

“I might be leaving tomorrow, but I hope we can stay in touch.” he said.

“I’d like that.”

“Good. Go to bed and I’ll see you at nine tomorrow. If you need aspirin or anything, you let me know.”

He was rewarded with a small smile. “I’ll be fine. See you tomorrow.”

***

“COME ON, YOU CAN DO it.” Donnie held out his hand. He was standing on the glass floor at the top of the CN Tower. Charlie refused to step on it. He jumped up and down. “Look, it’s totally safe.” He grinned.

“Stop! Don’t do that!” Charlie was looking at him in horror and he laughed. He moved to the edge where Charlie stood.