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Alice looks between us.

“Please don’t do this, either of you. This is just… hard. Lots of stress…”

I shake my head, still looking at Jack.

“The auction was enough proof that you gave a toss. She won. You gave her exactly what she needed. You didn’t need to make the rest about you.”

Jack’s jaw tightens.

“You’re both very welcome for all the help I gave you, by the way. The support, and the effort, and the funds. Oh, and for bridging a decade long heartache that neither of you had the balls to face. Yeah, thanks, Jack. You’re welcome.” He sighs. Forces a grin back on. “Ok, screw it. Sorry. Is that what you want to hear? Really? If so, just ask.”

There it is.

The armour dropping into place.

Bright.

Careless.

Untouchable.

“Don’t worry, guys,” Jack swats the air. “Next time I’ll let Parker pat you both on the head and take you home. No problem.”

“Don’t be a total jackass,” I say to him.

“Excellent,” he says. “We’re back to normal. BT, Soul Girl, and Jackass.”

“No, we’re not,” I say.

We all look to the side as the doors at the far end open.

Christopher stands there. Not calling Alice, simply waiting.

His stance says it all. Commanded by Bill.

Alice takes my hand.

“I have to go.”

My anger fractures instantly into heartache. This shouldn’t have been like this. It should have all been about her.

“I’m sorry,” I say.

“You didn’t do anything.”

“I should have stopped this.”

“You couldn’t. It’s just how it is.”

She looks at Jack.

He tosses his paddle to the side like it’s worthless. Downs his champagne and puts the glass on the nearest table. Then he puts both hands in his pockets and blows out a breath.

For the first time tonight, he looks like someone who lost.

“Congratulations, Soul Girl,” he says.

Alice’s breath shudders.