Page 98 of No Fear

Ryan escorted her down to meet Sophie.

“It was good of you to come and visit him. Help him out,” Ryan said in the elevator.

“We have a long history. I was worried and I had some time off work before my next assignment, so it was no big deal.”

“It is a big deal to us. Knowing he has someone else to look out for him.” Ryan smiled down at her before the doors opened.

Sophie stood waiting in the lobby. Ryan stepped forward and scooped her up in his arms, giving her a deep kiss. Sophie squealed and pushed at him to put her down.

“Ryan, stop.” Sophie’s voice was playful.

“I missed you.” He settled her on the floor.

“Christ. I saw you eight hours ago.”

“Too long.”

Charlie smiled at them, trying to ignore the pang of envy in her chest. They looked so happy and in love. It had never been like that with Simon. Not even in the beginning. It must be wonderful to have a man want you like that.

“I see you met Ryan already.” Sophie smiled at Charlie.

“Yes, and the rest of the team.”

“How’s Donnie?”

“Donnie is being a grump, but the team are going to change that tonight, so you ladies go and have a good time.” Ryan gave Sophie another quick kiss.

“OK, then. Charlie, are you ready?”

“Yes.”

“Then let’s go introduce you to the best women you'll ever meet.”

***

DONNIE HEARD LAUGHTER from inside his condo but ignored it. Charlie had said she needed to get out of here. Had she left? Gone home? He didn’t realize how much he wanted her here. Needed her here, until now. He should go after her, but how? Perhaps it was better that she left. He didn’t deserve her. Not now, not ever.

He heard the door slide open and sensed someone sit beside him.

“Donnie. Sorry I haven’t been to see you sooner,” Sam said, surprising him.

“I’m sure you’ve had your hands full. Any news?”

“Nyx are monitoring the situation.”

“No sign of the Aziz brothers?”

“Not yet. No. We’re on it. It takes time.”

Donnie mentally cursed. He wanted to be on the team to go and take them down when they found them. He wanted to look them in the eyes and pull the trigger, and he wouldn't have an ounce of remorse at doing it. But he wouldn’t be. Not now.

“I heard there was good news today,” Sam said.

Donnie seethed. If anyone else told him it was good news, he was going to lose his fucking mind. “I don’t see how being told I might not be able to operate again is good news!” he snapped.

“Might being the important word here,” Sam said unfazed by his outburst.

“Come on, Sam. I can’t see. Even if I get some sight back, I’m not going to be able to shoot a rifle.” Why did no one else get it?