Page 22 of Rescued Faith

He nodded, seemingly satisfied for the moment. “So, you’re the explosives expert. What do you see?”

“Oh, uh, over there, in that upper office, look at that smoke pattern. I think that was where one of the explosions originated from.” She pointed at the far wall.

“Makes sense. And they used an accelerant. The place smelled like gasoline last night. I’m guessing they started the original fire in that front part of the building, gave themselves time to escape.”

She should’ve been more aware of what was going on. “They had to know first responders and firefighters would be on the scene, though, when that secondary explosion hit.” Bryce and his team had walked right into their trap. And she’d been helpless to do anything about it.

“Then they wanted more than a damaged building. I think someone is trying to get our attention. And they didn’t mind leaving you to die either.” Bryce’s brow furrowed. “We need to get to the bottom of this.”

“Is there anyone who has a beef with the crew?” Penny turned away from the rubble and watched Bryce.

“Dunno. But I’m gonna find out.”

And with that pure determination etched in every line and angle of his face, she had no doubt he would. He was never one to back down from a fight.

They took pictures where they could without stepping into the building. Wavy heat lines still rose from the smoldering remains. “Once it’s cooled off, I need to get in there and investigate more.”

“Your boots will melt or catch on fire if you step in there now.”

He was right, but she hated having to wait. They turned and headed back to the street. A car engine somewhere revved. Theyshooed a pigeon out of the alley as they walked back to the sidewalk where they’d parked their vehicles.

“Do you want?—”

“Hey, could I—” They spoke at the exact same time.

Penny chuckled. “Sorry. What were you saying?”

“Like I said before, ladies first.” That twinkle in his eye was so irresistible. He smirked, leaning against the hood of his truck.

She cleared her throat and stared down at her boots. It was too distracting to trace the outline of his jaw or try to read his eyes. She could lose herself so easily.

Hold it together, Pen. He’s just another handsome face. And he cheated on you. Didn’t want you.

A loud noise sounded. Bryce popped up and spun to face a low-riding black car as it sped toward them. She caught the glint of metal sticking out of the windows before Bryce knocked her to the ground.

Gunshots rang.

The engine of the car roared. Sharp sounds of metal hitting metal filled her ears. Her breath stopped as Bryce held her, cradling her head off the cold sidewalk. He sheltered her body as shards of cement, cinderblock, and dust rained down. Within a matter of seconds, it was over. The gunshots stopped. The sound of the car engine faded as it sped away.

Penny searched the brown eyes hovering over her.

“Are you okay?” His voice caught.

She took quick stock of herself. No more pain than she’d had when she’d woken up earlier. She couldn’t find her voice, so she nodded.

The relief in his gaze was palpable. He dropped a light kiss on her forehead. “Thank God.” His breath shuddered near her ear. “I thought I’d lost you again.”

To be there in his arms, held, cherished, safe for just a moment, quieted the ringing in her head. He was protecting her even now.

“I’m sorry.” Even to her own ears she sounded a little broken.

“Sorry? For what?”

“I’m sorry I left without saying anything.”

EIGHT

I’m sorry I left without saying anything.

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