Chapter 154

hapter 0154 “Well, let’s look to see what all the libraries are here and if we can upgrade them or if we need to start all over. I rather use the existing buildings than made a new one. You can’t recreate that architecture.”

“Give me this week. I took over the seating arrangements for Penny for prom. I need to finalize that and follow up with everyone.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” I asked, shocked.

“It just happened this morning. She called me crying that she is emotionally struggling with it all and wanted to know if I could take something off her plate.” Emmy shrugged. “Your system you organized for me is really helping this come together.”

“Come to the office this afternoon and I will help you finish the seating charts and call everyone.” I sighed.

“I wish she would have called me.”

“She wanted to but she didn’t want to you to think she was a failure or weak. She looks up to you and she didn’t want to disappoint you.”

That shocked me a little. Maybe I need to do something nice for her. “That’s crazy.”

“It’s really not. You pulled her out of an orphanage and gave her a life. She owes you everything. So does a couple other dozen people. You might not see it as a big deal but you have personally saved kids from becoming criminals.” I was silent for a little bit before I remembered Calvin had not brought me his drawings. “Alec, can you tell Calvin to bring me his drawings today.” He didn’t answer but nodded at me. Basically, I needed to relieve Penny of all her duties and allow her to heal.

She had taken on my shop and I needed to take it back. I just wanted her to heal and be the great person I know she can be. If she was calling Emmy for help, she needed a break. We finished eating in silence until we were finished. Jasper grabbed our plates as we stood to make our way to the office. Emmy ran to get stuff for the prom as we walked into the office. Picking up my phone, I dialed Penny’s number. “Hello?” She answered. Her voice was sad and mopy.

“Penny, are you okay?” I asked as I sat down.

“I’m fine. Just going day by day.”

“Penny, I love you but please don’t lie to me “>

“I’m sorry!” She started crying again. “I-”

“Penny stop. You have nothing to apologize for. I know the stress you are under. Where is Colt?”

“I’m right here.” He said. I must have been on speaker phone.

“Good. Listen, I know you asked Emmy to take over the prom stuff.” “I didn’t want her to tell you. I can do it! I just..” “Penny stop.

It’s okay. I am not mad at all! In fact, I think that is amazing that you knew when to ask for help. You are not weak for asking for a helping hand.” I saw Alec point a pen at me. Fl*pping him off, I kept talking. “I’m calling to let you know that I love you but I know you need a break. You need to focus on yourself right now and your connection to Colt.”

“What do you mean?” Penny asked.

“I’ll take over my shop. You basically have anything done anyway! You did such an amazing job that I will only have to see the finishing touches. This isn’t a punishment but a reward. You helped me out so much when my world seemed dark, now let me do the same for you.” 1 Penny’s so b were heard over the phone. “Thank you, Ice. That will really help with her stress level at this time.”

“Of course. If there is anything I can do to help...” I said.

“Just stay safe yourself.” Colt sighed.

“I will.”

“Okay, love you.” Colt said to me.

“You too!” I responded and hung up.

“No-” There was a knock at our door. It wasn’t three yet so I was confused who it could be.