Page 143 of Collide

Before I can respond, a low, familiar voice cuts through the air—smooth, deep, and laced with something undeniable.

“If I’d known this weekend was an open invitation, I would’ve reconsidered.”

A prickle of awareness slides down my spine before I even turn around.

Broderick.

He stands casually at the top of the steps, the afternoon sunlight catching the sharp angles of his face. His green eyes lock onto mine, steady, unreadable—but something in his gaze lingers, sharp enough to make my stomach clench.

Dressed perfectly in linen trousers and a fitted navy shirt, sleeves rolled up to reveal strong forearms, he looks composed, completely at ease. But I know him well enough to recognize that underneath, he isn’t.

Riley lets out a low whistle beside me. “Careful,Bradley. You almost sound jealous.”

Broderick’s lips twitch, but his voice stays smooth, unbothered. “I don’t get jealous.”

“Plus, you’re the co-host,” I tease, shifting the weight of the bags. “You can’t back out now, chicken.”

He exhales a small, almost amused breath before stepping forward to take the bags from my hands.

Our fingers brush.

A fleeting touch.

But it’s enough.

A sudden warmth curls up my arm, betraying me completely as heat creeps up my neck. And before I can even process the reaction?—

The unmistakable sound of a sleek convertible engine hums into the driveway.

I don’t have to turn around to know who it is.

Alex.

He swings open the car door before the vehicle even fully stops, stepping onto the gravel like he’s meant to arrive late, like the party only really starts when he shows up.

He tugs off his sunglasses, eyes scanning the estate before landing on me. A slow, knowing smirk curling at his lips.

“Hey,Älskling,” he coos, striding toward me with an effortless confidence that always makes my pulse skip.

Before I can react, he scoops me up in an embrace, spinning me slightly as if we have all the time in the world.

I let out a startled laugh, hands gripping his shoulders.

“Hi,” I murmur shyly, lost in the moment. “Happy birthday.”

I lean in, pressing a soft kiss to his lips.

Alex hums approvingly against my mouth before pulling back enough to murmur, “This place is incredible.” His gaze flicks toward the house, excitement gleaming in his expression.

But then, his attention shifts.

And everything in the air changes.

I feel it before I even turn to look.

The moment Alex’s eyes land on Broderick, the atmosphere sharpens.

It isn’t obvious—not outright—but I know them both well enough to recognize the subtle shift.