Page 76 of No Fear

“I already started.”

“Oh, well I guess I need to catch up.” Maddie grinned wider and Charlie stepped aside to let her in.

“Where are your folks?” Maddie asked, heading into the kitchen.

Charlie slumped down on a bar stool. “Out shopping. Where are the kids?”

“Dave got home early and I needed a break.” She smiled as she poured herself a glass. God, I love you being back here.” Maddie raised her glass.

Charlie clinked it halfheartedly.

“Donnie called.”

“He’s back? That’s good.”

“Yeah, that’s what I thought. Except it wasn’t.”

“Oh.”

Charlie relayed the conversation. “He was so... cold. Like a different person.”

“Charlie. He told you he had a rough time. Maybe this is what happens sometimes. He probably just needs a few days to... decompress or something. I can only imagine some of the things they have to do.”

A wave of guilt rushed over Charlie. “He could have just said that. He could have just texted and said he was back if he needs time. Now I feel like a bitch.”

“Call him back later or tomorrow. I’m sure he’ll be fine. You might have to get used to this if you’re going to be his girlfriend.”

“I’m not his girlfriend.”

“Yet. From what you said he plans to change that.”

Charlie stayed quiet, sipping her wine.

“Have you heard from Simon?” Maddie asked.

“He calls and texts. Last was a voicemail yesterday.” Charlie played it for her.

“Shit. He sounds angry.”

Charlie shrugged. “Glad I let it go to voicemail.”

“Don’t go there to get your things. Not alone anyway. I don’t like the way he sounded.”

“You’re as bad as Donnie. He said the same.”

“Well, he’s right. Have you given it any more thought? About Donnie?”

“It’s all I think about, and I don't know what to do.” Charlie sighed, topping up her glass.

“There’s no rush, Charlie. You don’t have to know now.” Maddie held out her glass and Charlie filled it.

“God, I wish Nate was here right now. He knew Donnie better than anyone.”

“I know. I’m sorry. He would want you to be happy. I know that.”

They were quiet, sipping their drinks. A buzzing came from the kitchen and Charlie realized it was her phone. She forgot she had silenced it earlier. She walked over and picked it up, seeing three missed calls from Donnie and two from her mom. Donnie could wait a little longer, but she called her mom back. She rarely rang twice. Always texted if Charlie didn't answer.

“Hi, Mom, is everything alright?”