I followed Julian back up the beach, but when he returned to the mansion, I veered back to the bonfire. By now, the fire was dying down. Veronica and Jessica were sitting with their backs to it, facing the ocean. They each had a glass of wine and a marshmallow in hand. The opened bag sat between them.

I walked over to them. “Where’s Nicholas?” “He went inside soon after you left,” Veronica said.

“He didn’t even say goodnight,” Jessica added.

“It’s been a long day today,” Veronica told her.

Jessica shrugged. “True.” “Why don’t you join us for a while, Piper?” Veronica added.

I looked back at the mansion, where Julian and just disappeared inside. I tried to imagine myself going to my room and trying to sleep. With the thought of that kiss in the front of my mind, sleep didn’t seem likely.

“Okay,” I said, and plopped myself down onto the soft sand on the other side of Veronica. She grabbed the bag of marshmallows and held it out for me. I accepted one and plopped it in my mouth. Ah, sugar! So sweet and delicious.

night. I can’t believe Bridget got

not have to worry about that

think she behaved all that terribly,” Jessica said. “I mean, sure, she probably should have switched to water for a bit there, but...” Jessica sipped at her own wine. Everyone was a little

said Jessica rolled her

on, Veronica. You must wonder too.” “Wonder what?”

mean...? “Which of the two princes do you actually love?” Jessica

body froze, while my heart began to pound

a warning

love is a bit extreme,” Jessica admitted. “That’s probably where Bridget pushed too

we know which of the two princes you are pursuing, Piper?” I didn’t know how to answer that. My tongue felt too big for my

both selected you at the elimination ceremony,” Jessica

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