“Oh my God.” Nicole turned on her heel, marching away from the group and swearing up a storm. Stella didn’t have to turn around to know she headed straight for Harlow.

“Yeah, that sounds about right.” Francis left too, following his partner.

Once they were alone, Jewel said, “I knew she’d be a problem, but you? You definitely didn’t strike me as the caring type.”

“How would you know? You said it yourself: Out of everyone here you know me the least.”

“Touché. Sit with me.” Jewel walked into the closest tent and lounged on one of the beach chairs.

“I hope you don’t think you can flirt your way back into my good graces.” Stella chose to wait by the entrance. “I second the Alex and Luna Outrage Act. They’re far too small and cute for me to remain calm if they’re hurt.”

“Oh, I’m willing to do way more than flirt.” Jewel tapped the beach chair next to her, then said, “I asked Luna if she wanted to leave. She declined. I arranged for her to receive proper care and attention in the meantime, which is where she is now. If she were truly hurt, I would’ve made her go to the hospital, penalty-free.”

“Why didn’t you tell Nicole that?”

“Because I like it when people assume the worst about me. Keeps my skin clear.”

Stella cackled. She hadn’t expected that. “And Harlow? Did you make her an offer? Where are her arrangements?”

“Oh, now I know you don’t care about her.”

When she closed her eyes, Stella still saw Harlow’s face through the dirty glass, nasal cannula giving her oxygen, tears covering her cheeks. She could smell the dirt too. The sound of the buzzing fluorescent light wasn’t far behind.

“I’m still deciding. Answer the question.” Actually, she had decided. She wouldn’t allow Harlow to get hurt on her watch again. Wearing her emotions too close to the surface wasn’t an option. Knowing the truth meant people could use that against her. Lloyd and Diane had taught her that.

Jewel sighed. “I suppose I could talk to her.”

“Nicely,” Stella clarified. “Be nice to her with all your money bags and resources in tow.”

“Fine. Now, will you please sit with me?”

Stella looked over her shoulder and across the room. Nicole plopped down right in the dirt next to Harlow, placing a plate of food she must have made in front of her. They’d be okay for now.

Jewel smiled as Stella sat down. “I’ve been thinking about you all day.”

“That’s not surprising. I have that effect on people.”

“One day, that mouth of yours is going to get you in a lot of trouble.”

“You’re assuming that hasn’t already happened.”