I close my eyes, processing the information until it hits me. I almost drop the note. We have it backward. Garrett should ask her to fix something only she can…like finding a kidney for his sister. This changes our whole plan.

My stomach knots. I hope it’s not too late.

Rushing upstairs to the party, I search for Garrett, finding him standing casually at the bar like he comes to these things all the time. Ignoring the familiar jolt that pummels me at the sight of him, I hurry to his side.

“It’s about time,” he says without looking at me.

Staring up at his perfect profile illuminated by a sunshine ray filtered through the water, I’m surprised a chorus of augmented angels doesn’t break into song. But, good looks aside, he’s seriously the most irritating person on earth. “You haven’t talked to her yet, have you?” I ask.

“No. She’s over there.” His eyes stay glued to the flawless blonde standing a few feet away.

Her hair is pulled back in a high ponytail, and her dress accentuates her tiny waist. She exudes femininity and sexuality, and, wearing Betsy’s braids, I’m like a silly country mouse in comparison. Use it. Stay in character.

Nicki turns to her companions: an equally stunning girl with wild pink hair and a buff guy who stands guard over the beauties, his back to us. Alone, each could command the attention of the entire room, but together they’re virile and sensual and brighter than the star that leads you home.

“Look at them,” I whisper in awe, something in my gut flaring with familiarity, belonging. I can’t put my finger on it, but I feel like I know them. Maybe it’s because they’re who I used to be… But it’s more than that. The air is charged with energy, and I’m certain we’re on the verge of something big.

Garrett nods, equally entranced by the threesome.

I sense desire in him. Whether it’s to be them or to be with them, I’m not sure, but it sends my heart straight to the pit of my stomach, as I am certain he’ll never look at me that way. I’m destined to be his kid sister. Not that I care.

Blinking to clear my vision of bubbles, I straighten my spine and lean my head on his shoulder, fake adoration in my eyes. “Let’s get her.”

Garrett’s lips curve into a smile, and we’re conspirators. He elbows my side, whispering, “Now that sounds like a plan.” Slipping his arm around my waist, he guides me to them.

Electricity shoots down my spine. “Hey,” I whisper back, “real quick. Change of plans. Faye passed me a note—”

But I don’t finish my sentence because the guy Nicki is with turns around.