“You admit it’s ‘unethical,’ but you’re goin’ for it anyway. Duke, I told you last night, you don’t need to play baseball. You’re so much more than that game. And screw Regina. If she’s lying, she can’t hurt you.”

“‘If she’s lying’ … Nice. I don’t have time to get into this again. Please, trust me, it’s more important than ever I don’t get cut. Other people are counting on me.” He set the vial and syringe on the cushion. “All of this is supposed to go into my ankle, behind the outside ankle bone.”

“The lateral malleolus,” she said, proud of remembering the Latin name of the bone. She lost any positive vibes, however, when she picked up the small vial filled with clear liquid. Angel rolled the glass bottle between her fingers, frowning, wondering why her heart suddenly shivered with something that felt like grief … Then she knew. She’d lost respect for Duke. As that respect receded like a wave, it also wiped out her desire to be with him. She’d been telling herself she was too busy and his life was too complicated, but that was from insecurity, while she tried to protect herself, yet, deep down, hoped they’d end up together. Now, seeing this talented man about to do something so incredibly stupid just so he could play a game and avoid conflict with Regina … He wasn’t worth her time.

Then again, she was about to go against all her principles and throw away her self-respect. No, the horrible thing I’m about to do, I’m doing it for Jose. There was no one else counting on Duke, not really. Duke was doing it for Duke.

“Alright. I’m not your mama. Take off your sock and shoe.” She filled the syringe, tapping the plastic to release the air bubbles, while he stripped off his shoe and put his foot on the ottoman. Pressing the tip of the needle against his flesh, she said, “Your last chance to do the right thing.”

Duke’s deep voice shook. “I swear to God, you the most righteous, judgmental woman … Just do it!”

She plunged in the needle, harder than necessary. He didn’t flinch. She tossed the empty syringe and bottle into his lap and pointed at the door. She wanted him gone, before her disappointment turned to loathing. “Get out. Forget my address. I’m done doing you favors.”

He rolled up his sock, narrowing his eyes at her. “You act all high and mighty, but you didn’t have to go Kinley’s party. You didn’t have to go to the Peacock last night. Miss Martyr, that’s you. Getting your picture in the paper, being seen with me, wearing expensive clothes. You liked it or you wouldn’a come back.” Duke stood, towering over her. “I did you a favor. I gave your boring life a much-needed boost.”