Page 40 of No Fear

“Perhaps on a date. But this isn’t a date,” she said, although she’d had a really good time talking to him. Donnie had always been interested in what she had to say and today, he seemed genuinely interested in her work and what she did. Simon never asked her anything about it anymore. Their conversations were all about his job.

“I know it’s not a date, but I want to pay. Call it a thank you for the tour. Put your money away.”

Before she could say anything else, he signaled their server and handed him the bill and cash that appeared to include a very generous tip.

Picking up her money, she stood. “OK, then. Drinks are on me later.”

“We’ll see.” He smiled as he stood and followed her off the patio.

They wandered through the streets and stopped in a few touristy shops. Charlie laughed when Donnie tried on a moose hat. She snapped a picture. She had no idea why she had invited him along today, except it seemed like the right thing to do at the time. She had missed him. She should probably still be mad at him. Not let him off this easily, but since they were both steering clear of the subject of that night and him leaving, she had forgotten how upset and mad she had been earlier. Plus, it was much more fun doing the tourist thing with Donnie than doing it alone. She had to admit she was enjoying his company. Maybe they could move past what happened and still be friends. She didn't have many.

Closer to the CN Tower, the streets got busier, filled with Blue Jays fans heading to the game. Donnie moved to her other side, putting himself between her and the road. She glanced over at him a few times. Jeez, the man was fit. A SEAL. That was impressive. It was also hot as hell. No wonder he was in such good shape. She couldn’t help but notice those biceps, and the way his body filled out his T-shirt, making it look like a second skin. A tattoo peeked out from under his left sleeve. She couldn't make out what it was and itched to push the sleeve up to get a better look.

Lost in thought, she almost walked straight into a garbage can.

“Whoa. You OK?” Donnie placed a hand on the small of her back and gently pulled her toward him. His touch sent a shiver down her spine.

“Yes. Sorry. Miles away.”

“Somewhere nice, I hope.” He didn’t remove his hand as they continued walking.

It was strangely intimate, even though he was just guiding her through the crowds. She should remove it and yet, she didn’t want to. It felt good.

“I guess the game is starting soon.” His voice brought her attention back.

“Yes. Three o’clock, I think. They’re playing the Yankees. Oh, my God!”

“What?” Donnie stopped, a worried look on his face.

“Yankees! We have to go the game!”

“We don’t have to—”

“We do.” She interrupted him. “You’re a fan. It’s so cool in there. You’ll love it.”

“Well, if you insist.”

The stadium was almost sold out, but they managed to get two tickets on the second level, along the third base line. Donnie insisted on paying. Again.

The game had just started when they found their seats.

“It’s great, isn’t it?” Charlie stared up. The roof of the dome was open, giving the perfect view of the CN Tower.

He had to agree it was a cool stadium. “Yeah, it is. Have you been up there?” he asked.

“No. Not yet.” She turned to face him. “Maybe we can do it tomorrow before you leave? I mean... if you want to. You might have had enough of me after today.”

“Not a chance. I’m grateful to be spending this time with you. For you letting me be here.” He smiled and her stomach did a little somersault as their gazes locked. The Blue Jays scored, and the stadium got on its feet, cheering.

Forgetting herself, she jumped up and joined in.

“You’re supporting the Jays now?” Donnie said in mock horror.

She didn’t really care who scored. Since she was from New York, she really should support the Yankees, but she had fallen a little bit in love with Toronto.

She shrugged. “I’m showing support for both. Come on, on your feet.”

“Nope. Can’t do it. Can't cheer for the other team.” He shook his head.