Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

Fiona just shook her head, not offering up any explanation.

"You'll see in a few days," she said, all mysterious.

Jane could tell Fiona wasn't going to spill, so she let it go. She plopped down in a chair, poured herself some water, and settled in like she owned the place. "I ran into Jean at registration," she said. "She was with the Gregory family crowd. As soon as she saw me, she started begging me to add her name to our team, but I turned her down."

"Keep an eye on her," Fiona said quietly. "And make sure the three girls on her team are careful about what they eat."

If Fiona's hunch was right, Jean was up to something.

"Got it. Here, hold on to this registration slip. You'll need it to get in tomorrow."

When Jane left, she remembered Fiona's warning and didn't touch the water in the room. Instead, she grabbed a few bottles of mineral water and handed them out to the other four girls. Still, Jean was nowhere to be found.

Rooms on the island were tight. Only Fiona and Jane got singles-the other three contestants and Jean had to pair up and share.

"Where's Jean?" Jane asked, holding two spare bottles.

one of the girls replied. "She said she wanted to see the ocean. Said

rest and stay sharp. I'll go find

with Jean had wasted no time after Jean was bumped to alternate. She'd immediately started buddying up with the other two, trying to fit in and up her own chances. Jean might be a backup now, but everyone knew nobody was going to give up their

way down a narrow path to the beach. She spotted Jean sitting on a rock, looking out at the waves, eyes red from crying.

you get sick," Jane said, pulling her jacket tighter. The island was hot during the day, but at night, the temperature

Jean's voice

stopped and looked at

didn't say anything else, Jane sighed. "Whatever happens, this was your choice. Fiona didn't force you-you gave up your

Mr. Connor would have let me compete,"

She turned and gave Jean a sharp look. "Even

was right. Even

would've taken the spot herself. She'd

all of you a chance to shine. If you wasted it, that's on you. And seriously, stop acting like

alone on the rocks. Jean broke down, crying