The others are up on deck, lazing around and eating a cold buffet set out on a long, low table by the loungers; it looks incredible, and my stomach rumbles despite the anxious tension between Jake and me. It’s a welcome distraction, and I head straight for it to fill myself a plate, deliberately ignoring him behind me.

“Oh, the love birds have returned,” Leila squeals and almost throws herself into my arms for a hug. I cast her a warning look, but she doesn’t seem to ...