“Let’s just say my father would be very pleased if he were to get the first contract to export items via a space elevator.”

“Very good,” Abignail says. “You know, you were given this task specifically because of your social skills. We felt you were the perfect candidate to get close to Nicki—partly because you’re nearly the same age, but also because of your ability to quickly analyze a situation and think on your feet. I trust you understand how to behave in the tech-savvy world. Despite what happened during last year’s heist, you did prove yourself sufficient in portraying an Influencer…”

My ears perk up, but I keep my expression neutral.

“And who’s this?” Abignail gestures to me.

Remembering Rayelle’s suggestion I pose as Garrett’s girlfriend, I imagine how much trouble we could get into pretending to be in love. We’d probably have to get comfortable kissing… How would it happen the first time? Would he push me up against a wall and plant one on me to keep us from being discovered? I can practically feel his lips pressed against mine, and my stomach drops. I frown. These fantasies must. Stop.

“This is my kid sister, Betsy,” Beau says. Unable to quite contain his grin, the Garrett I’ve come to know and hate appears, and the daydream comes to a screeching halt.

My glare could cut glass. “Beau and Betsy Bradford? You can’t be serious.”

He ignores me. “Mom and Dad sent her along for the summer hoping I’d rub off on her and she’d get her act together. She’s gotten a little too into island life lately.”

“A lazy little girl? That’s what I’m an authority on?” I say. “I can’t be an intern, too? Or have my own start-up?”

Beau evaporates, and it’s Garrett that faces me, his eyes full of mischief. “Of course you can, but in this situation, you’ll be more believable as my sister.”

“But we don’t look anything alike.”

“Not yet.” He grins. “Besides, with your innocent looks it will be easy to convince Nicki I need help making you over. She’ll jump at the chance to mold you. Then you’ll be on the inside, and she won’t suspect you’re after her ring. She’ll feel like your big sister.”

“Won’t we be a happy family,” I mutter before realizing Abignail is watching us, hiding a smile behind his fingers that are folded in prayer over his lips. Shutting my mouth, I compose myself, attempting to appear the obedient mentee.