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“Okay.”

“It’s a date.” I close my eyes, enjoying the relaxation and the company. I’m close to dozing when Hailey makes a disgusted noise and the other girl jumps out of the hot tub, striding swiftly across the decking to disappear inside.

“Did I miss something?”

Jared purses his mouth. “Meh. Just tried to get an underwater blow job, but I guess it’s not on the cards.”

“You’re being revolting, babe.” Hailey takes his chin in her fingers, tipping his face towards her. “And your pupils are all blown. You promised you wouldn’t drink too much tonight.”

“And I kept my promise,” Jared mumbles. “I’m not drunk. I’m high.”

He laughs while she pouts, her expression brightening when she sees Ferdinand leaning against the outside wall. “Hey, Ferdie! You want a three-way?”

The boy immediately crosses to the tub, crouching while she turns around, leaning her arms on the decking.

“Babe, no,” Jared says in a hurt tone.

“What?” she says, the picture of innocence. “Are you too high to get it up?” She pulls a face at Ferdinand. “In which case, want a two-way?”

He laughs and lifts her bodily from the water, carrying her across the deck while she squeals.

Jared’s face turns thunderous. “For fuck’s sake. She’s only been back with me for five minutes.”

“Perhaps you should cool it with the drinking and drug-taking then.” When he turns a stony gaze on me, I add, “Carry on the way you are, and coach will pull you from the squad.”

“You’re the one who’s in danger of being cut, dude. How about you mind your business, and I’ll mind mine?”

He heaves himself from the water, and I track his stumbling progress, relaxing when he makes it safely inside.

When I turn back to Francesca, she appears concerned. “Are you losing your place because I hurt your arm?”

I snort. “More to do with me arguing and swearing at coach when he told me to see the nurse.” I drop off the seat, letting the water buoy me as I turn to float before her, spreading her knees. “You’re sure you’re okay with our shopping plans this weekend? I haven’t asked Uncle Lance yet, so if you want to pull out, now’s the time.”

“And disappoint Hailey?” She rolls her eyes. “I couldn’t, possibly.”

“She might’ve invited herself but she’s not coming. Her dad can buy her a tiara.”

“That’s fair.” She tilts her head back, staring up at the stars. “And it’s only married women or brides walking down the aisle who’re meant to wear them.”

“Wait. There are rules for jewellery?”

“There are rules for everything, rich boy.”

We stay in the water for another few minutes, then I climb out to fetch towels, quickly dressing so I can help her dry.

The house is overheated after the crisp air outside, and we both gravitate towards the garage, where the open door keeps it cooler.

Ezra is still playing beer pong but must be winning because he looks more sober now than he did earlier. Jealousy might also play a part as Aidan flirts with a couple, university age, apparently keen on introducing himself as a third.

Hailey arrives in the room, stealing Francesca away, and I take the opportunity to text my uncle, checking that he’s okay with me inviting us onto his weekend trip. He soon replies to say he’s looking forward to meeting her.

A much better option than accidentally running into her one day at home. Not that she’ll be staying there long.

With the body gone, I’ve organised for an exterminator to clear and rodent-proof the place this coming weekend. After we spend the day in Auckland, she can safely return home to her mouse-free, freezer-free rental. The less time she spends in Onyx, Tyson, and Ezra’s close company, the better.

Speaking of the devil, Ezra finishes his current round and comes over to stand beside me. “You weren’t training the last few days. Did coach cut you?”

“Not that I know of.” Not yet. “I had a few jobs on. Your dad might assign you jobs that fit around your rugby ambitions, but he doesn’t do that for me.”