Page 89 of No Fear

“Er, OK. Get on base?” She frowned at him.

“Westside is the base hospital. That’s where my appointment is. Where Dr. Sophie Summers works,” Donnie explained.

“Oh, right. Of course.” Guess she was going to the base then.

“OK. Charlie, his medication is on the counter. Two pills, three times a day. He’s due two in about an hour.”

“Fuck, Mackie, I’m not deaf. I can remind her when I need the pills.”

“Right.” Mackie said, but he still pointed to the bottle on the counter and Charlie nodded.

“Charlie, call me if you need anything. In fact, give me your phone.”

“What are you doing?” Donnie asked.

“I’m adding my number. Dex and Sam’s, too. Just in case.”

Charlie waited while he did just that.

“OK, I’ll leave you two to it. Charlie, lock up behind me.” He gestured to the door and Charlie followed him.

“Does he just sit in that same spot all day?” she asked quietly. It had been bothering her. Other than using the washroom, Donnie didn't move.

“Pretty much. Yeah. It's only been a few days at home. He’s adjusting. Hopefully Sophie has some better news tomorrow.”

“Shall I call you afterwards?”

“No. I’ll call. Or Dex will. Not sure how long I’ll be in this meeting.”

“Oh, right. Sorry. Not used to all this.”

Mackie smiled. “Don't worry about it. For the record, I think it’s really great that you came. He seems more relaxed today than he has been since it happened. You took his mind off it. If only for a little while.”

Charlie’s cheeks heated. “Really? I wasn’t sure. I mean we only just reconnected after not speaking in years.”

“I know. He told me. He was stoked you guys were talking again.”

“Yes, me, too.”

“Goodnight, Charlie. We’ll talk tomorrow. And if you need anything, or if he’s being too much of a pain, call me. Doesn’t matter what time. If for some reason you can’t reach me, call Dex or Sam. I’ll give them a heads up.”

“Got it. Thank you. I’m sorry I called you a guard dog earlier.”

Mackie grinned. “Now you know me better, I’m just a puppy at heart.”

She laughed as Mackie took off down the hallway.

Donnie still hadn't moved.

“Can I get you anything?” She felt a little awkward now it was just the two of them again. Tension filled the air that hadn't been there earlier.

“No. Thank you.”

“OK. I’m just going to change, if that’s alright?”

“Make yourself at home. I’d show you around but...” Bitterness filled his voice.

“I’ll be fine. It’s not that big a place,” she said brightly, trying to ease the mood. “Do you mind if I take a quick shower? It’s been a long day.”