Page 32 of Implode

“I just hope it isn’t sooner than she is capable of handling.”

“I hear you. Trust me, I’ve been going through all of the scenarios in my head in regard to Penny’s official release.” He glances at his watch. “Want to watch the pay-per-view fight with me that starts in ten minutes?”

I smile. “Just like old times?”

“Yeah, just like old times.”

* * *

Even though Claire rejected my offer to pick her up for breakfast, I decided to bring the meal to her at the office. I am the first to arrive to HH. The only employees here are the nightshift guards who are about to leave with the turnover of the next set of employees. It has taken me some time to fine tune the circuit of schedules. However, after several adjustments, I think I have everyone placed correctly and the job descriptions ironed out appropriately.

My personal assistant, Brenna, arrives shortly after me. I have instituted “on call” hours for her each morning that I pay her for, even if I do not need her that early. I just like to have the flexibility of having her assistance if need be. Despite just starting, Brenna appears to value professionalism, and I can respect that. On paper, she is marked down as being my personal assistant. However, with her security and bodyguard background, I pay her extra to perform duties that go outside her on-paper job title.

“I need you to keep tabs on Claire Nettles who works in the Plus None office space. Anything that looksoffwith her behavior, I need to know.”

“Okay, sir,” she says slowly, making sure she heard me correctly.

“Obviously do not give her any insight on my orders.”

“Alright. Can I ask a question?”

“Sure.”

“What should I do if she catches on? I mean, I don’t work on her floor, so how would I be able to explain why I am there?”

I think about the question for a few seconds. Brenna does have a point. “You’re right. And if she found out, I think she would try to hurt me.”

Brenna smirks and tries to hide her giggle. She has seen the results of Claire’s penis-obsessed bakery purchases, so she knows firsthand how impulsive and free-spirited she can be. I’ve been on the receiving end of her wrath, and as sexy as it is to see her worked up, I don’t need to add additional stress to her plate.

“If I notice anything in just passing, I will share it with you, sir.”

“Sounds good, Brenna, thank you. I’ll be back here in a bit. I have a mission to complete.”

9

CLAIRE

I shouldn’t be surprised to find Nic in the meditation room sitting on the floor with a breakfast buffet laid out on a large black-and-white checkered picnic blanket. I arrived at the office an hour before the others, as I often do. I have so much work to do, and seeing him taking up not only physical space but also mental space is frustrating. When our eyes meet, I huff out a breath and stomp into the room where I go for peace and to think. Clearly, neither of those things are happening today.

Nic brings about chaotic thoughts and increased blood pressure—the exact opposite of tranquility. He is getting under my skin, and the more he notices that his antics are working, the harder he pushes. I hate to admit that he is stripping some of my layers off. It is flattering to be pursued. However, no one actively pursues a pregnant woman with the excessive amount of baggage I have. As soon as he finds out, he’ll bolt.

It will be the fastest magic trick known to man.

If Mr. Commitment Phobe is scared of a relationship, he sure as hell will be scared of possible fatherhood. Who wouldn’t be? It’s not like any of us expected to be a parent while actively using birth control.

“Good morning,” he chirps cheerfully.

“You are extra chipper this morning,” I grumble, scanning over his setup.

“I am.”

“Why?”

“Just happy to be alive.”

“Is that so?” I ask slowly.

“Come eat with me.”

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