Page 73 of No Fear

Chapter Twelve

“You don’t have to stay,” Donnie grumbled. Mackie had picked him up from the hospital and brought him home to his condo. His team had decided without consulting him, that Mackie would stay at his place for the time being. Being the only other single guy on Raven and living in the same condo complex, it had been agreed it was the best option.

Donnie was irritated decisions were being made without consulting him, but there was no point complaining. He did need help whether he liked it or not.

“You heard Sophie. You cannot be left alone right now. But if you would rather stay in Westside...” Mackie let it hang, knowing damn well Donnie hated being in the hospital.

“Fine.”

“Good. Now, do you need anything?”

“No.”

Donnie was settled on his couch. It had been a harrowing experience getting from Westside to his apartment. If he ever got his sight back, he would never take it for granted again. He had felt like a toddler learning to walk for the first time, uncertain of where to put his feet. Holding onto Mackie. Stumbling at curbs and steps. It had been humiliating, and he hated anyone seeing him like this.

“Have you spoken to your folks yet?”

“No, not yet. I will soon.” He didn't want to tell anyone. Wasn't ready to admit what had happened. “Is my phone here?”

“Yeah. Hang on.” A few seconds later, Mackie placed it in his hand. “If you want to unlock it, I can check the messages for you.”

Donnie held it in front of his face and waited. “Knock yourself out.” Mackie took it from him.

“Sure I’m not going to see anything I shouldn’t?” he teased, but Donnie wasn't in the mood.

“Just tell me the messages.”

“OK, then. Looks like you got a couple of voicemails. And a text from Charlie.”

“What does it say?”

“Hey, just wanted to make sure you’re OK? She sent it last week.”

“Play the voicemails.” He gave him the code, and they listened.

“Hey, Donnie, it’s Mom. Just checking in. Not sure when you are back. It was so lovely to see you. Best birthday preset ever. Call me. Love you.”

He waited for the next message.

“Hi, Donnie. I don’t mean to stalk you. I’m just worried. I guess I’m not sure how your... job... works. If you are back, just send me a quick text to let me know you’re OK. Thanks. Oh...it’s Charlie by the way.”

“Do you want me to respond to either?” Mackie offered.

“No.” He was snapping and being moody. He knew it and Mackie didn’t deserve it. Sighing he said, “I’m assuming your guy had nothing to report about Simon. He stayed away?”

“Not heard.”

“Does he know what he’s doing?”

Mackie chuckled. “Yeah, he does. We’ve been kind of busy, and I have had other things on my mind. I’ll touch base with him now.”

Donnie waited as Mackie got up and moved out of the room to make the call.

A few minutes later, he was back, still talking. “Alright, I’m putting you on speaker now.”

“Hello, Donnie.”

What. The. Fuck? “Tracer?”