Chapter 20

In the aftermath of the poolside kiss, Harriet and Wyn keep touching in the water until their friends shove Sabrina in, breaking the spell. They towel off and head to their room, where desire flares again, blurring thought and boundaries.

Alone in the dark, they fumble toward sex. Wyn asks consent, explores Harriet, and urges her to ask for a kiss. Their bodies press together, but when Harriet can’t define what it means, Wyn pulls back. He says it’s a bad idea and that they can’t be together, reminding them of the real-life break and pain.

Shaken, Harriet covers herself and agrees they were swept up by the place. Wyn apologizes and steps out to cool down, leaving the bed to her. Harriet lies awake, every sensation recalling him, replaying his “Tell me to kiss you.”

She reflects on Cleo’s earlier question about her goal for the week and admits she doesn’t know whether she needs simply to survive the week or avoid ruining the wedding. Determined not to regret how she uses this time, she asks herself what she truly wants.

Harriet dreams Wyn returns tenderly, whispering that there’s no one else and calling her perfect. She wakes before sunrise to find herself still alone.