I let myself into the cottage and locked the door behind me. Then I set my takeout meal on the kitchen counter and flopped onto the couch, drawing my knees to my chest and resting my forehead on them. I’d wanted to go after Liam, but when I’d gotten outside, he and Asher had already been climbing into Liam’s Ute—the same one he used to drive—and then I’d been accosted by two teenage girls who’d apparently seen me go into the pub from their car and came to check if I really was who they thought I was.

After I’d dealt with them as politely as I could, I’d returned inside to order dinner. Eugene Braddock had served me but suggested it would be best if I didn’t return. His iciness had been difficult to stomach. He’d always been such a warm, open person. But I hadn’t expected anything less. At least he’d spoken to me. Heather had just glared with open hostility.

My stomach growled. I’d better eat. I went back to the kitchen and opened the paper-wrapped bundle of fries and chicken, serving a portion onto a dinner plate. My personal trainer would have a conniption if she could see me, but I’d already decided I was saying goodbye to Hollywood Kennedy. No more calorie counting and insane workouts. I’d keep in shape, but I’d do it how I wanted. Still, it wouldn’t hurt to stock the pantry tomorrow so I could cook something healthier. For now, I’d enjoy the treat.

I bit into a fry. It crunched satisfyingly. I ate in silence, then cleaned the dishes.

The quiet unnerved me after years of sharing a house with my siblings. When Jamie and Joel had moved into their frat house a few months ago, I’d kept expecting to hear them banging doors or talking too loudly. The solitude had felt strange. Unsettling.

I washed my hands, unzipped my suitcase, and pulled out the faded scrapbook tucked inside the lid. I carried it to the bed, sat cross-legged, and flipped through, perusing the photographs I’d long ago glued into place.

Liam in front of the lookout.

Me with the entire Braddock clan at Eugene’s birthday party.

Me and Summer, arms around each other.

Liam and me at the waterfall.

I paused on that one, my heart aching as I remembered how hopeful I’d been, excited for a future that had never happened.