Page 83 of Implode

“Yes, sir.”

“And the overall employee climate?” I probe.

“Seems positive from what I’ve been noticing,” she says with a smile. “I saw on the calendar that you are taking off an extra day this week, in addition to Friday. Anything I need to do while you are gone?”

“Just keep doing what you are doing, Brenna. You are doing a great job.”

Her face beams with pride. “Thank you, sir.”

When Collins steps off the elevator, I escort him into my office and we sit on the couches instead of at my actual desk.

“We will be heading to Hillsboro a day early, as you saw in the group text from my mom.”

Collins nods and pulls out his phone to what I assume is the calendar. The bridal party for the wedding is small. Collins and I are the groomsmen, while Claire and Penny are bridesmaids.

“Graham said that Penny is released from the facility and is staying with your parents?”

“Yes, that’s correct. She actually got awarded an extended release. This is the biggest one yet. But she’s itching for a full discharge.”

Collins nods. “I just hope it isn’t too soon.”

He has been with Graham and me through all of Penny’s recovery. On many occasions, Collins has visited the facility in Seattle and provided updates on Penny’s progress. Granted, it’s in her best interest that she isn’t made privy to these details.

“I agree. She wants to be on her own. Graham and I will have to sit down and discuss how we can make sure she stays safe while still having independence once everything is official. Penny has always been a free spirit. Anyway, we need to make sure all news outlets are far away from the mansion where the ceremony and reception will take place. I have hired a few men to pose as waiters to make sure that nothing goes wrong and no paparazzi ruin the intimacy that Graham and Angie want.”

“I can definitely be on the lookout as well. I’m sure the photographers will be lined up at the gate, trying to sneak a glance.”

“Yeah,” I say with a sigh. “We can only do so much without actually making a scene. I made some promises about being on my best behavior, but if you see something that needs handled, by all means,handleit.”

“Here’s to hoping that there is no drama,” Collins says with a sigh.

Knock.

Knock, knock.

We turn to the sound coming from behind the door.

“Mr. Hoffman?”

“Come in, Brenna,” I direct.

“Sorry to interrupt.” She pauses and rocks on her heels. “But can I—”

Collins gives me a wave and walks toward the door. “I’ll chat with you later.”

“Sounds good.” Once he leaves, I get up from the couch and make my way over to my desk, before turning my attention back to Brenna. “What’s up?”

“I think Miss Nettles suspects me of watching her.”

Sitting down, I tap my fingers along the polished surface. “Why do you say that?”

She takes a deep breath. I’m not mad, so I don’t know why she is so nervous around me. Well, actually I do know why. I have a bit of a reputation.

“It’s just a feeling. And from the movement I see on the cameras, Claire is the only one on the elevator and she pressed the button for the Security floor.”

“If that’s the case, send her in.” It’s not like I’ve gotten any work done today thus far. Might as well be graced by Claire’s temper on top of everything else. I can bet that she is pissed off over something and ready to brawl.

Brenna nods and leaves. She is very good at her job, so I imagine if she thinks Claire knows, then she knows. It was only a matter of time before my girl caught on. She already figured out the trackers.

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