Page 77 of Surviving Love

Jack watched our interaction with a pissy expression, but I ignored him. I no longer cared what Jack thought of my friendship with Larry. As soon as I could arrange it, I’d see to it that Jack the Liar was voted off our tribe. He didn’t deserve to win a whoopee cushion, let alone the million dollars.

Chapter Sixteen

When we returned to camp, we were jubilant. Not only had we dodged a bullet in the form of going to the Fire Council, but we’d also earned a food reward of chocolate brownies and coffee.

We sat around the fire and ate the gooey treat, groaning at how delicious it tasted. The rich chocolate melted on my tongue, and I couldn’t deny my mood improved a hundred percent. There was nothing like chocolate and coffee to lift my spirits.

Harold sat next to me, and once we’d finished eating, we went off together to wash our hands. Of course, it was really just an excuse to be alone to talk strategy. I found it intriguing that Harold didn’t suggest we invite Jack. I was glad because what I needed to discuss with Harold couldn’t be done with Jack around.

“I noticed you and Lydia were talking today,” I said casually as we washed our hands in the creek.

Harold smiled. “Jack noticed too.”

“Of course he did. He sees all.”

Glancing over at me, Harold said, “For a while there, I thought maybe you and Jack were getting close. But it seems I was wrong. You seem to hate him again.”

I grimaced. “Hate is a strong word, but I definitely dislike him intensely.”

Chuckling, Harold nodded. “Good.”

“Good?” I lifted my brows. “I thought we were all in an alliance together?”

“The more I think about things, the more I’m questioning whether I want to sit next to Jack at the final two. The guy has way too much charm. The women in the tribe practically swoon when he looks at them.”

My face warmed because if Harold could only have seen how easily Jack had seducedme, he’d lose all respect for me. “I think you’re being smart.”

“I seriously think every woman in America will cast their vote for Jack. The bastard will smear me if it’s me and him in the final.”

“You’re right.” I glanced around. “We need to get rid of him ASAP.”

He laughed. “I thought maybe I’d have to talk you into this. It seems you’ve been thinking about this too.”

“I have. Jack is a fake. I hate fakes.”

Harold’s gaze was curious. “Why do you say that?”

I shrugged. “Just a feeling I get.”

“Did Sherry tell you about Jack’s wife and kid?”

“Yes.”

“I don’t know why he hid that from us. Having a family would just make him even more relatable. Why keep it a secret?”

“You talked to him earlier. Did you pose that question to him?” I stood and flicked water from my hands.

Harold rose too and nodded. “I did ask him. To be honest, his answer was confusing. He said he’d had to tell Sherry something fast because she’d seen that photo.”

“What does that mean?” I frowned. “That’s a weird way to answer your question.”

“I thought so too.”

“I mean, he’s either married or he isn’t.” I laughed.

Harold shrugged. “He didn’t deny he’s married. The kid looks just like him.”

“He showed you the photo?”