The moment I step up, Arsen’s grin hits me in the chest, and a light twinge of discomfort follows. I quickly look away, grab my things, and dodge his hand when he reaches for me. I get the hell out, knowing he can’t exactly call out in protest and feeling like shit for leaving him with my half of the cleanup to add to his own.

I book a session with the personal trainer at the gym for this evening and the minute school is out, so am I.

My chest had no permission to ache, and to remind my brain of such a fact, I’ll make sure my entire body does too by the end of the night.

“This is amazing.” Cali closes her eyes, leaning her head back on the ledge. “My muscles are so tense right now.”

We kept the jets in the jacuzzi off so our hair doesn’t get wet since we agreed to show up for last call at Dax’s club tonight after their team gets back from their away game.

I nod, my eyes closed. “Same. Monti met me at the gym just before I was coming home and made me do leg circuits all over again.”

“Where is Monti?” Jules slips, splashing us both by accident. “I haven’t seen her in forever.” Half of her words are drowned out by the glass at her lips.

I frown, my eyes roaming over her. “I don’t know. Busy, I guess.”

“God, how I wish I didn’t know every little thing Amy did all the time.” She glares at the water, downs her glass and climbs out, nearly losing her balance. “I’m getting a refill and more sushi. Who wants?”

“We’re good, Jules.” Cali watches her go and turns to me.

“She’s off the hook lately,” I say what we’re both thinking.

“We were late yesterday because she was drunk when I went to pick her up for school.” She keeps her voice low. “I had to throw her ass in the shower and shove half a loaf of banana bread I snagged at the coffee house down her throat.”

“Did it work?”

“I’m pretty sure it was the first time she had eaten carbs in like two years, so yeah, it worked.” She nods, a light laugh leaving her but concern is there too. “You haven’t been around as much as you were this summer.” Her eyes slide to mine. “I didn’t think you noticed.”

I look away and sigh. “I noticed, Cali.”

I don’t make an excuse or add a lie to make her feel better.

I give only the truth, and she accepts it.

“I think she’s stressed over her mom or something. Our girls’ day, sans alcohol, will help.” She nods as if she’s sure when she’s not.