After they’d returned from the airport, Lucas seemed to sense her need for space and had gone back to his shop. But now, as the sun seemed to still in the sky, Kate wished for a distraction.

She’d already finished her column and didn’t want to be near the TV after watching it half the afternoon. Two cable news shows had mentioned the scandal, saying they were looking into the allegations. With a scorned woman like Stephanie on the loose, they wouldn’t have to look far.

Her cell phone rang incessantly, but she didn’t answer the calls. Two reporters had had the nerve to show up on their doorstep, but she hadn’t answered, and eventually they’d gone away.

She’d wait and see if the afternoon papers picked up the story. She imagined that’s what Chloe was waiting for. Would the Mirror pick up the story? The thought of the locals knowing the truth was enough to put a lump in her throat. They knew her here not as Dr. Kate, but as a friend and neighbor. She ate and worked and worshipped among these people. They would feel betrayed when they found out. And Lucas’s family, natives of the island, would be center stage.

My life is spinning out of control, and I’m helpless to stop it. It was the same feeling she’d had as a child. Never knowing what to expect or what to feel because she had no control over it.

She pulled her legs closer, set her chin on her knees, and rocked in the sand.

Kate waited to hear from Chloe the rest of the day, but no call came. What was her editor waiting for? The morning papers? She slept restlessly that night. Beside her, Lucas seemed to sleep peacefully, his breaths deep and even in the darkened room.

She hadn’t heard a peep from his family. Maybe Lucas had asked them to give her space. Maybe they were relieved she wasn’t really part of the family. His mom was probably thrilled.

How were they treating Lucas? Were his dad and Brody angry at him for the deception?

Just when Kate thought it couldn’t get any worse, she remembered his parents’ marriage. She sighed, regret filling the hole in her gut. I didn’t do a thing to help—haven’t kept my end of the bargain at all. Lucas married me for nothing—except all the grief he’s getting.

It wasn’t like Susan wanted her help, but Lucas had kept his part of the deal, and Kate had let him down.

You didn’t exactly have the twelve months you expected. You’re not a miracle worker.

If only she had more time.

Kate faced the wall, turning quietly so as not to disturb Lucas.