There’s only one explanation, and it sinks into my chest like a lead weight.

Me.

I’m the reason Magnolia lost this job—the job she loved and worked so damn hard for. And just like that, the guilt I thought I’d buried months ago comes rushing back, sharper than ever.

These things always have a way of coming out. Whispers in the right ears, a few too many coincidences lining up. And despite the obscene amount of money I paid Celeste to keep her mouth shut, somehow, it still wasn’t enough to protect my girl.

Frustration simmers beneath my skin. “I just need to talk to Magnolia. How can I get in touch with her?”

Her professionalism doesn’t budge, but there’s something in her eyes—compassion, maybe. “I’m afraid I can’t help you with that.”

“Please. I’m on my way back to Sydney, and I need to see her before I go.”

She hesitates for a second, and I think she might cave. But then she shakes her head, her expression turning apologetic. “Soul Sync’s privacy policy is strict. There’s no wiggle room.”

Her voice drops to a softer tone. “I’ve seen what happens when people break the rules, and I can’t risk my job. Please don’t ask me to do that, even for Magnolia, whom I love dearly.”

Fuck my life.

“I get it. But leaving the States without seeing her isn’t an option.”

“I’m sorry.”

“She’s moved on—I’m not here to interfere with her life. I just need one chance to look her in the eye and say what I should’ve said months ago.”

She offers the faintest of smiles. “I hope you find her and say what needs to be said, for both of your sakes.”

She leans closer, her voice low. “It’s Thursday. There’s a great aerial dance studio in Charleston called Elevate Aerial Arts. They hold classes every Thursday at six o’clock.”

What the hell is she talking about? “Thanks, but I’m not interested.”

Her lips twitch with something that resembles amusement. “You should check it out tonight at six o’clock. Elevate Aerial Arts. I think you’d enjoy it.”

She glances at her watch, a subtle smile playing at the edges of her mouth. “It’s almost five, and the studio is across town. You better get a move on.”

I stare at her, realization creeping in. I nod once, the weight of unspoken words hanging between us. “Right. Thanks for the suggestion.”

As I turn to leave, her voice follows me, softer now. “For what it’s worth, we all knew she was seeing someone while we were in Sydney.”

I freeze, my feet rooted to the spot.