Clearly this was a long running play-feud because no one seemed to take it seriously. And being here with them every day had slowly started feeling like a family. I blinked as tears threatened again. It reminded me of when my dad was alive and both my mother’s and aunt’s families and extended families would have Sunday lunch every week that lasted past dinner time. All that had changed when Mom married Nicolas, of course.

I’d miss these new friends. So, so, much. It was clear, I was going to have to resign. I couldn’t stay in a situation where I wasn’t wanted. I certainly didn’t want to be fired, if that’s what he was getting ready to do. Besides, I needed to be available if any of the firms I’d contacted wanted me to come in and interview. I couldn’t really ask them to wait while I hopped off a boat in the South of France. Jesus, my mom was right. I should have stayed. It was too late for that, but I needed to go home now. Dauphine was going to her grandmother’s anyway. It was perfect timing.

“All right,” said Andrea with an eye roll. “Enough, Rod. Josie, we were discussing getting off the boat later. What do you think, do you want to join us? We might take a wander along the port and wind up in the town. It’s gorgeous. Maybe you and I can pop into a few boutiques since they stay open so late. We can meet the guys for a coffee later.”

We’d docked in St. Tropez just before dinner. It should have excited me, as I’d finally have a chance to get off the boat onto solid ground and explore the town I’d heard so much about. But now it was probably the place I’d be leaving from.

“All right, so no answer from Josie then,” Rod said.

I took a breath. “God, sorry. I-I think I’ll stay on board. I’m not feeling that great.” I couldn’t face going out with everyone and having to pretend I was happy and not about to leave. Plus, I needed to write a resignation letter, pack, and make arrangements to leave.

My breath hitched as I fought back an almost hysterical laugh mixed with wanting to wail.

Andrea reached across the table and squeezed my wrist. “It’s going to be okay.”

Blood rushed to my cheeks that she’d draw attention to me in front of everyone when I was feeling so raw.

“What is it?” asked Chef.

“Yeah, what’s wrong, sweetheart?” Rod said simultaneously.