Page 244 of On a Fault Line

“You and Penny belong together.”

“Not according to Nic and Graham.”

She shakes her hands in front of me as if to magically erase the words I just spoke out loud. “They’ll come around. Don’t let their overprotectiveness sway your efforts. Penny was the happiest when she was with you. I have no doubts that you are her person.”

“Are you sure you’re up for the challenge?”

Claire taps her finger along her jaw. “If this means going against my fiancé and pissing him off, count me in. I have been in such the mood for makeup sex.”

I narrow my eyes at her. She is something else. And no matter how many times I think I’m prepared for what will come out of her mouth, she changes direction and surprises me.

“I do appreciate you.”

“This is going to be epic.”

“So here’s what I had in mind…”

* * *

It’s been exactly a week since I rescued Penny from Soulful Mind.

And it’s been exactly a week since I declared to her that I’d be pursuing her.

I’ve said sorry. I’ve sent flowers every day. And I’ve given her the space she seems to need.

But I’m done with doing things her way. She’s had ample time to come to terms with things going back to it being “us,” so she can’t be all too surprised that I’m currently waiting for her to arrive at a restaurant.

I know she’ll be here. And when she realizes that I know she’ll be here, she’s going to lose her shit.

I can’t wait.

There’s an excitement moving through me at seeing her face and her reaction.

I know she won’t disappoint.

Penny’s been staying at Nic’s old apartment since we broke up, and I’d do anything for her to be back under my roof so I can keep a better eye on her. But knowing her, she’s going to fight tooth and nail.

That’s my girl.

She is stubborn.

She is independent.

And she is brave.

I’m just tired of seeing her go about all of this alone. Relying on stalker updates from Chris and my own security footage access, I can’t tell if Penny is sleeping enough and eating enough. I want to take care of her but can’t do it as well from afar.

It’s time I take my girl back and claim what’s mine.

“Can I get you anything, sir?” the waitress asks politely.

“Sparkling water, please.”

“Any flavor?”

I tap a finger along my jawline. “Strawberry.”

“Very well. I’ll be right back.”

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