After Luke disappeared from view, Ava pushed away from Jackson, her voice firm.

"Stop, Jackson. Whatever mess you have, whatever guilt you carry, is none of my business. And never try to make a move on me again."

Jackson's face contorted in regret. "Sorry, Ava. I didn't mean to—"

Ava cut him off, her tone unyielding. "Just sorry, Jackson. That's all."

With a swift turn, she excused herself and walked away, her heels clicking toward the closet. But as she reached for the ...