Page 141 of On a Fault Line

“Yes, and I can’t wait to see it.”

Excitement rushes through me. “I definitely want to see it.”

“Claire even has an elevator so Nic can stop worrying over her missing a step,” Angie volunteers with a laugh.

“Of course he does. Punk is probably driving her to the guest room with his overprotectiveness.”

Angie leans against the counter. “Ha, I think she has four of those rooms, so at least she has options.”

There’s a light knock at the door, making us all turn.

“That’s Collins,” Graham says. “I am going to have him drive you, Penny. That way you can leave whenever you want.”

It’s more than that though. I think these men are strategically keeping information from me and are using this time at Nic’s as a way to hold a meeting where I’m conveniently not invited. With the delivery today, I’m sure they have a lot more to discuss.

I walk to the door and let him in. “Hi, Collins.”

He tilts his head toward me. “Miss Hoffman.”

I step back and allow him to walk past. He takes the direct path to the keychain and examines it between his fingers. Having spent so much time with Collins, I know the subtle mannerisms that hint at his mood.

And right now he is livid.

His spine is rigid. And his eyes are focused on the envelope. He is holding it so tightly, I worry he’s going to break a bone in his fingers.

I want to comfort him. I know he’s upset that I’m being threatened. But I can’t.

“You’ll make sure Penny gets to Nic’s safely?” Graham asks him.

Collins gives him a look and a slight nod.

I always find it fascinating that these strong-willed men in my life can have conversations without ever speaking a word. So much can be said in a look or with a gesture.

“Ready to go?” Collins asks.

His hand moves to where my lower back is, but doesn’t connect. Quickly, he retracts it, and I mourn the loss.

My brother might think that going to Nic and Claire’s new house will be a calm distraction, but getting there with my broody bodyguard will be nothing but tension-filled.

“Can I drive?” I ask, already knowing the answer.

“Sure.”

My body snaps to Collins. “What?”

“Yes, you may drive, Princess.”

My body relaxes. “It’s going to be the ride of your life.”

“I have no doubt.”

27

PENNY

“You’re doing really well, Penny.”

My face warms from the positive praise. I spare a glance at Collins. Why does he always look at me like he’s in need of some carbs?

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