“Well, he’s singing a different tune now. By the looks of it, his hands were in harmony with every part of Cassie’s body.”
I pressed my lips together, fighting a smile.
“I just can’t believe Cassie would do such a thing to you,” Brinley said, shocked.
That was the only part of the plan I hated—throwing Cassie under the bus. But she’d insisted. She wanted to play the vixen, wanted to get dirty. And maybe, judging by the sounds Brinley had heard, she wanted Jonas too.
“To be fair, I did announce to everyone that I thought we should never see each other again.”
“You’re a nicer friend than I am,” Brinley said, still hugging the life out of me. “Do you want to get some ice cream and talk? I’m here for you. Liam is too. Aren’t you, babe?” She nodded toward her other half.
“That’s so sweet of you, but I think I just need to be alone for a while.”
Before I could step away, Laila rushed over and wrapped her arms around me too.
“We’re here for you, girl.”
“Thanks, ladies. You’re the best. I’m just so happy I met you all,” I cried, letting my voice wobble just enough for the cameras.
Inside, I was steady as a stone.
Best actress ever.
Though truly, I was glad I’d met all these ladies. I just hoped I wouldn’t forget who they were in two weeks.
“I’m going to go now.” I pointed toward the doors.
“We’ll check on you later,” Brinley called after me.
I nodded and waved, already imagining the gossip that would set the grapevine on fire.
On the path, I made sure to look properly stunned, knowing the cameras were still on me. I even tilted my face to the clear blue sky, as if asking,Why me?
But what I was really doing was praying.
Please, Great-Grandfather, let this be enough. Can’t you see what I’m willing to do for the boy I used to love? Please—give me the chance to love him again. Let Roman recognize my soul.
And P.S.—I hate quests.
Chapter XXXVIII
Roman
IheardJunie’ssquealsof delight the moment I stepped into the cabin after another long, taxing day. Her happiness offered a flicker of solace.
I’d never wanted a season to be over more—or less.
On the surface, everything was going according to plan. The Bureau had approved several couples. Ratings were through the roof. Even if the studio was tearing into me daily over the internet’s obsession with Demi and me. Apparently, I couldn’t hide my feelings for her to save my life. Still, they were letting me keep my job. A job that now felt trite. Especially in light of what Demi could do.
Truth was, she was the one who’d worked magic this season. Not me. And despite everything I’d tried, I couldn’t help her.
Ten days until the August full moon, and I was no closer to finding her true love.
So while my show soared, the world was about to lose one of its greatest gifts in a millennium. And it was all my fault.
I walked through the cabin looking for Junie, hoping whatever had her squealing with delight might rub off onme. At the very least, I just needed a hug. But the cabin was empty—no Junie, no Mom.
I headed for the backyard, only to stop short when I caught a glimpse through the window.
