Megan winced as the truth stabbed home. Deep down, she’d always feared that she might not have what it took to succeed—not even as Lacy. In the dog-eat-dog world of show business, it took grit, determination, and luck to make it big. But most of all, it took talent. If the talent wasn’t there, all the hard work in the world wouldn’t be enough.

She blinked back the tears that sprang to her eyes, hoping no one would notice. Rush’s innocent remark had given voice to her worst fear—that she just wasn’t good enough.

But that didn’t mean she was ready to give up. She had to believe in herself. She had to keep chasing her dream until there was no dream left to chase.

Maggie and Tracy were exchanging glances—knowing looks that spoke a clear message. “I thought she was wonderful,” Maggie said. “The way she held the crowd’s attention, and made it fun for everybody, was great. And she had a beautiful voice.” She rose from her chair. “Now, who’s ready for dessert? Apple pie with ice cream, if you’ve got room for it.”

“I’ll help you serve.” Megan stood, almost too hastily, and followed Maggie into the kitchen.

“Thanks,” she said as the door swung shut behind them. “Things were getting awkward in there.”

“Well, just so you know, I meant every word I said about your performance. I thought you did great.”

“You’re very kind,” Megan said. “And thank you for keeping my secret.”

“The ice cream’s in the freezer. You can scoop it out.” Maggie cut the pie into six wedges and began lifting them carefully onto saucers. Megan dug out a scoop of vanilla for each piece. “You know,” Maggie said, “it might be simpler to just tell Conner the truth. He’s a good guy, and I can tell he likes you. He’ll deal with it.”

“Deal with it how?” Megan finished scooping and put the ice-cream carton back into the freezer. “You know that Lacy isn’t real. But she’s like having this glamorous girl buddy who always steals your boyfriends. If Conner knew I was Lacy, he would want me to be Lacy. And that would ruin everything.”

“I understand your point.” Maggie picked up three of the saucers, leaving the rest for Megan. “But how long can you keep him from knowing the truth? No man likes to be made a fool of. If Conner sees Lacy at the ball and realizes he’s been played, he’s not going to take it well.”

Megan picked up the remaining saucers and followed Maggie back into the dining room. Her new friend was right. Conner was a proud man. The longer she kept her secret from him, the more upset he was likely to be when he discovered the truth.