Episode 10: You Obviously Don't Feel the Same

Gabby

"There you are," Jenna-Lee says, her face lighting up when she sees Aaron.

Reluctantly, I take the seat at the table opposite August. "Gabby," he smiles warmly. "How was your morning?"

I force a smile and keep my thoughts to myself: An absolute disaster. My best friend figured out I love him. Instead, I say, "We went jogging and explored some of the island. This place is amazing."

"It really is," August agrees.

Jenna-Lee quirks an eyebrow at Aaron. "You jog now?"

I pick up my roll and cut it open. "When I manage to drag him with me."

Jenna-Lee's smirk appears briefly, and I immediately regret mentioning anything. "Aaron never had any energy left in the mornings after I was finished with him."

What kind of woman talks about her sex life with another guy, right in front of her current boyfriend? I'm sure Jenna-Lee intends for the comment to be both a boast about her own libido and a dig at mine. August doesn't seem impressed, and my disgust with the situation continues to grow. How can Aaron possibly think we can maintain the same level of friendship when he starts dating Jenna-Lee again? It's an absurd idea.

And why didn't Aaron say anything after discovering my deepest, darkest secret? How could he just stay silent? It's insulting. Even if he doesn't feel the same way, he should have said something. For whatever reason, he's keeping his mouth shut. Maybe he's worried that his rejection will make me leave, that I won't help him win Jenna-Lee back. He probably feels trapped between guilt over my feelings for him and his love for another woman.

Aaron shakes his head. "Jenna-Lee."

She feigns innocence. "What did I do?"

"You're acting like a bitch," Aaron says.

Buttering my roll, I say, "Dogs like to mark their territory."

Jenna-Lee glares at me, her face growing flushed. On the other hand, August looks more than a little amused.

"You don't hold back, do you?" he asks me.

I give a one-shoulder shrug. "What's the point? Life is too short."

August raises his glass in my direction. "I'll drink to that."

Aaron's expression turns thunderous as he glances between August and me. This stupid game they play.

"If I remember correctly, you like bunnies, right?" August asks.

"Yes." We had discussed rabbits the first time we met. I'm surprised August remembers.

"Did I ever tell you my sister breeds them?"

"Let's face it," Jenna-Lee interrupts, sounding bored. "It's not hard to breed rabbits."

August takes out his wallet, pulls a photo from it and hands it to me. "She's ten years old. She made me buy one."

When I look at the photo in my hands, I see it’s a picture of a girl holding a giant white rabbit. The rabbit is nibbling her shirt, and she's smiling down at it. I feel a small smile of my own forming.

"You carry a picture of your rabbit?" Aaron asks incredulously.

"That's Nibbler." August points to the rabbit in the photo, ignoring Aaron. "And that's my sister, Rachel. She's looking after him while I'm here."

I pass the photo back to him. "Very cute. Your sister and the rabbit."

"I thought you might appreciate that."

"You and Rachel are close?"

"She has me wrapped around her pinkie, and she knows it."

Aaron and Jenna-Lee are watching our interaction with matching expressions of annoyance. Aaron probably believes that August is trying to charm me to score points in their game and make Jenna-Lee jealous. Right now, I can't bring myself to care.

Cain claps his hands together loudly. "If I can have your attention. Today, we're going to be hiking on our neighboring island, Devil's Peak. The hike will take around three hours. Following that, we'll have a cookout on the beach. Please finish your lunch, then make sure you are dressed appropriately. The boat will be ready to take you across at one-thirty. Don't be late."

I put down my roll, the food suddenly tasting like cardboard in my mouth as I realize I will have to spend the next few hours with August, Jenna-Lee, and Aaron. Does Aaron want to keep up our pretend relationship now that he knows the truth, or will he try to abandon the plan of making Jenna-Lee jealous in order to spare my feelings? I'm not sure which is worse. The last thing I want is Aaron watching me all the time, trying to figure out if I'm getting over him.

"Aaron." All of us turn around when Edward walks up behind us. "I still have a question I need to ask you. Come and see me after lunch."

"I did not sign up for the great outdoors," Jenna-Lee complains as Edward walks away.

August rubs a hand over his eyes. "It's just one afternoon, Jenna-Lee."

"One afternoon of bugs and people sweating."

"Only if they're unfit," I throw at her, earning myself another glare.

Jenna-Lee then directs her glare at August. "You said it was like coming to a resort."

I roll my eyes and push my chair back. "I'm going to start getting ready. Please excuse me."

"But you barely ate anything," August points out. "We don't want you fainting on our big walk."

"I had a big breakfast. I'm actually not that hungry."

"Well, I know first aid. So you're safe if you stick with me."

I nearly fall out of my chair as August winks at me. Is he being playful? Glancing at Aaron's murderous expression, I quickly bite back a laugh. August has been sending me clearly admiring looks, but it's obvious he's still just trying to mess with Aaron.

Jenna-Lee scoffs. "Could you be any more obvious, August?"

I stand up. "Enjoy the rest of your lunch."

"I'll come up with you," Aaron declares, standing up as well. His eyes carry that familiar glint of protectiveness, a look I've witnessed countless times but never directed at me with such intensity.

Part of me wants to tell him not to accompany me, but deep down, I know it would achieve nothing. Avoiding him for the rest of the week is impossible, and dancing around the discovery he’s made is only going to make me all the more anxious. We're going to have to talk about it. This is a conversation I've been putting off for years. I just wish we weren't here on Heaven's Isle. I'd rather be at home, where I could run to Bernadette and Carly afterward and eat myself into a coma with ice cream.

Once we reach our room, Aaron hesitates near the door. "You know," he begins cautiously, his words carrying the weight of careful deliberation, "our plan has already worked. I was thinking we could simply hang out for the rest of the week. It's been ages since we've spent time together like this."

So that’s his approach, huh? He’s going to try and spare me from pain and embarrassment? It's too late for that.

Despite my best efforts, I can't hide the bitterness that seeps into my words. "The only reason I'm here is because you wanted Jenna-Lee to see the error of her ways."

His eyes soften as my words reach him, and he takes a hesitant step closer to me. "Gab, I love spending time with you. You know that. I always have."

A lump forms in my throat, and I quickly turn my attention to my backpack to hide the hurt I feel.

"Maybe.” I pack with more force than necessary, my hands shaking as they toss in sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a camera. Each item lands with a thud, a stark reminder of the reality I'm trying to escape. “But you didn't invite me here solely because you enjoy my company. I'm here because you want Jenna-Lee back, and you're close to achieving that. So there's no point in giving up now. I can handle keeping August occupied."

His expression instantly shifts into a disapproving scowl, and I narrow my eyes at him. "Don't say it, Aaron. I can spend time with August without getting caught up in this foolish game."

"I know. I just..." He runs a hand through his hair and moves closer, crossing the room with slow, heavy steps.

“I can't help but be concerned for you,” he says softly. “After hearing that you're getting over some jerk..."

His concern is genuine, yet his apparent obliviousness to his own role in my emotional turmoil forces me to snap. "I know you know, Aaron." I face him, crossing my arms defensively.

"Know what?"

"I know you know,” I reiterate. “I know you know the identity of my mystery man, so stop pretending."

Genuine surprise registers on his face as the realization dawns on him that I am aware of his knowledge. If only it brought satisfaction, but the undertone of pain and guilt etched in his eyes taints the moment.

"Don't act so surprised. I can read you like a book. Are you really not going to address it?"

Our eyes lock, and he leans against the wall closest to me, assuming a defensive stance. The intensity of his gaze compels me to look away, my eyes scanning the room in a feeble attempt to escape. But there is no escape, not from this conversation, not from the pain, not from Aaron.

"I thought you wanted to keep it a secret,” he says softly. “I followed your lead and assumed you wanted to ignore it."

I push him further, unwilling to let the matter rest.

"I did. I mean... You obviously don't feel the same way about me."

He averts his gaze, and in that moment, I know. My worst fears have materialized. My heart shatters into a million jagged pieces, piercing through my soul. The pain is unbearable, tearing me apart. Not just because my best friend doesn't love me and will never love me the way I love him, but also because after this, everything will change irreversibly. I already knew we were forever changed, but knowing it and experiencing the fallout are two different things.

"We've been friends for so long, Gab. I've tried my best not to see you in that way."

His words cut through me. The room spins around me, and my heart pounds painfully in my chest. I'm on the verge of falling apart, but I force myself to remain composed, to maintain the facade of control.

"So you're saying it's my fault that I fell in love with you?"

"You know that's not what I'm saying."

"Fine, but that's what you imply. It's crazy, considering you're in love with Jenna-Lee."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"I don't see you making an effort not to see her in that way. You're in love with her, despite the fact that she's a complete and utter bitch and she left you for August."

His expression shifts from soft and understanding to an irritated frown. "Go ahead, Gabby. Say what's on your mind."

"I just did."

I witness him struggling to regain control of his emotions. "Look, I don't want to argue with you," he says. "Not here. I don't want either of us to say something we'll regret."

Desperation seeps into his eyes, pleading for normalcy. But normalcy vanished the moment he realized my feelings for him aren’t platonic and he chose to ignore the fact.

"God forbid my love for you should threaten our friendship," I remark, my voice revealing the wellspring of hurt bubbling beneath the surface.

He frowns, looking genuinely confused. "I thought the whole reason you've kept it a secret is that our friendship means as much to you as it does to me."

"It does." Aaron's insistence on maintaining our friendship in light of my revelation stings. He steps closer, his hands gently enveloping mine. Our fingers intertwine, a gesture so familiar yet now laced with unfamiliarity under the circumstances. He gazes down at me, a mixture of sympathy and pity filling his eyes, emotions I can hardly bear.

"We'll get through this," he says. "Whatever you need from me, however I can help, just tell me."

I withdraw my hands from his, the contact becoming too much to handle. My love for him isn't something that can simply be "gotten through." I can't bear any more of his pity at this moment. I feel pathetic. I need to regain control of the situation and establish a sense of equilibrium. I have to demonstrate that I'm moving on, even if it means pretending that this doesn't hurt as much as it truly does.

Swiftly, I construct a facade of nonchalance. "You don't have to worry about it. I'm pretty much over you now," I say, steadying my voice despite the emotional storm within.

Aaron appears taken aback, and there's a momentary silence as he absorbs my declaration. "You are?"

"Yes. Turns out you were right. Coming here has been genuinely helpful."

Aaron's surprise is evident, but I detect a flicker of relief in his eyes. It's a blow to the gut, reminding me of the stark contrast between his feelings for me and mine for him.

"How...? I thought it would have made things worse."

I put on a brave face because I need him to believe that I'm moving on, that his pursuit of Jenna-Lee is aiding me in letting go. "So did I, but witnessing you pine after Jenna-Lee has been a major turn-off. It's precisely what I needed—a reality check."

He tilts his head, studying me. "How long have you felt this way?"

"It doesn't matter. What matters is that being here has provided me with what I needed to fall out of love with you. So just continue pursuing Jenna-Lee. It's actually helping me."

He's taken aback by my sudden shift, but with a nod, he takes a step back.

“Didn’t Edward want to talk to you about something?” I ask him when he doesn’t say anything more.

"Yes, but-”

“I’m okay here if you want to see what he wants now. I can meet you at the boat."

He frowns, clearly reluctant to leave my side.

"Trust me, I'm fine," I insist.

A trace of doubt flickers across his face, yet he turns and leaves with one last quick glance in my direction.

As I watch the door close behind him, I swipe at the lone tear streaming down my face.

It's done. I survived the conversation, and it was every bit as terrible as I imagined it would be. At least I can't possibly feel any worse than I do right now. From this point on, things can only improve. I will start to heal, and the words I spoke will eventually become true. I will move on. Witnessing him chase after Jenna-Lee is a painful reminder of how much it hurts to love him and how necessary it is for me to let go. Each twist of my heart serves as a motivation to heal and forge ahead.

Aaron

There’s no way I can pursue Jenna-Lee now. Yes, I’m relieved Gabby seems to be getting over me, but chasing Jenna-Lee while we’re here would be like flaunting it in my best friend’s face that I want someone else. I could never be that cruel. Not intentionally.

God, I have already made such a mess of our friendship by bringing her here. To see her hurting because of me is an agonizing feeling. We have had arguments before, and even some major fights, but this feels different. It feels like our friendship is hanging by a thread, and with one more wrong move, I risk losing her forever.

My heart has been twisting in my chest ever since she asked me that indirect question. Yes, I have had fantasies that are far from platonic over the past two days, but I decided to deal with them the same way I dealt with them years ago – fight them and pretend they don’t exist. I don't want to alter our current relationship. It might seem selfish, but I truly believe that both of us will be happier in the long run if we remain friends.

"Aaron."

I’m so lost in my own thoughts, I don’t see August until he’s right in front of me.

"Have you seen Edward?" August asks.

"I’m looking for him myself."

August nods. "Gabby back at the room?"

"Yeah, she is, and you can cut the cute comments remarks with her. Whatever this is we're doing here with Jenna-Lee, we leave Gabby out of it. Am I making myself clear?"

"As it turns out, I'm not doing anything with Jenna-Lee. We broke up."

"That's too bad," I say, feeling slightly smug about the fact that I've won this round.

"Yeah, I can see you're really torn up about it, but you're an idiot. Jenna-Lee wants both of us. She wanted me when she was with you, and she wanted you when she was with me."

I shrug. "So she's a little confused."

"Well, I'm sure you can help her make up her mind. Let's just say my interest no longer lies with Jenna-Lee."

My blood runs cold. "What did I just say? Stay away from Gabby."

"You know, Aaron, the only reason I never went after Gabby before was because she was in love with you."

Am I the only person who hadn't been able to see it?

"Then that's hardly going to work out for you now, is it?" I ask, my voice laced with frustration.

August leans in and whispers, his words cutting through me, "I get the feeling things are about to change."

"You don't know anything," I retort, trying to dismiss his words and regain control of the situation.

"I know you want Jenna-Lee back. You're going to get back with Jenna-Lee, and you're going to break Gabby's heart in the process. Guess who'll be there to pick up the pieces?"

"She knows everything about our game, August. She'll never go for you." I hope my words are enough to dissuade him, to protect Gabby from further heartbreak. But deep down, I'm not entirely confident in anything at this moment.

I brought Gabby here when she was in love with me and made her watch me chase another woman. Now my biggest rival is moving in, and August is right—Gabby will be more vulnerable now. If she ends up even more hurt than she is already because of August and this game, I'll never forgive myself.

"You warned me off her once. I'm not going to listen again. Gabby seems pretty cool, and I'm going to ask her out."

"You're going to ask my girlfriend out? You're the idiot, August."

"Come on, Aaron. We both know you're not really with Gabby. You told me a long time ago you don't see her that way. But I do see her that way."

"That's too bad for you."

"No, Aaron. That's too bad for you. You brought her here to use her in our 'game,' as you called it. What kind of person does that?"

I can barely choke back the guilt that rises in my throat as August stands there, his words hitting me hard. What kind of person am I to do this to Gabby? She's the most selfless, kind-hearted human being I know, and I used her trusting nature against her by bringing her here. I failed to notice the way she looked at me, and it's my own fault for not paying enough attention. I've been a careless friend and a terrible person, but that doesn't mean I don't love her or care about her. August doesn't understand the bond we share.

"You know nothing about what she means to me," I retort, my voice filled with a mix of defensiveness and pain.

As if August can see he's struck a nerve, he continues, "You don't deserve her, Aaron. She's too good for you. I don't even know why she's friends with you."

August's words rip the lid off the insecurities I try my best to hide. The lingering doubts about my self-worth resurface, fuelled by the memories of my past. The abandonment by my mother, the unanswered questions—why did she leave? Why didn't she take me with her? What kind of mother leaves their only child? Deep down, I believe there must be something inherently wrong with me, something that makes me unworthy of love. It's a belief I've carried for far too long, and August's words only amplify it.

I feel the urge to retreat, to walk away from everyone before they can walk away from me and hurt me. It's a defence mechanism I've developed over the years—to distance myself from others before they can realize I'm not worthy of their love. Maybe that's why I let myself love Jenna-Lee. Her self-absorption and shallow nature provide a shield, preventing her from truly getting to know me. I convince myself that she can't reject the real me because she's incapable of seeing beyond herself.

Gabby is the only person who has managed to break through my defences and become significant in my life. She refused to let me push her away and forced her way into my heart. Our friendship is precious to me, a lifeline that keeps me anchored. I can't imagine a world without her by my side. But now, the fear of losing her is creeping in as August plants doubts in my mind. I can't bear the thought of him getting closer to Gabby. He must stay away from her.

"I'll make her my girlfriend for real," I blurt out, a knee-jerk response driven by desperation.

August smirks, his words laced with sarcasm, "That's going to look great, Aaron. If she knows about this game like you say, she's going to believe the only reason you're interested in her is because I am. You missed your chance. I get Gabby, and you get Jenna-Lee, the consolation prize. Good luck with her, by the way. She's a high-maintenance one."

The anger within me starts to boil, ready to burst forth, but my attention is quickly diverted as Edward approaches us.

"Go near her, and I'll break every bone in your body," I growl, my voice dripping with a mix of protectiveness and fury.

August simply grins and saunters away, offering a casual wave. There's nothing I can do in this moment, as Edward is now standing beside me. His hand on my shoulder provides a momentary grounding force.

"Aaron, there you are. We really do need to talk. Step into my office for a moment, would you?" Edward's voice carries a sense of urgency, and I can't ignore his request.

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Elle's Store

Aaron

As we jog back towards the house, I watch Gabby out of the corner of my eye. What the hell just happened? One moment we were having a good time in the water, and the next she was practically begging me to kiss her. When she leaned in, I fought back the impulse to press my lips to hers. All I could think about was last night when I kissed her and screwed everything up. And now, this morning, I didn't kiss her, and I've messed things up once again. I need someone to explain what's going on. We were alone on the beach, no audience to pretend in front of and she's supposed to be in love with her mystery man. So why is Gabby mad at me for not kissing her?

The possible answer hits me with such force I nearly stumble. No way. I'm not her mystery guy. It can't be me. She's here helping me win Jenna-Lee back. She wouldn't do that if she was in love with me, would she?

Of course, she would. Gabby would do anything for me, and I would do the same for her. And Gabby has never kept secrets from me, but she refused to tell me who her mystery man was. Suddenly I can't shake off a slightly sick feeling that there may be more truth to Jenna-Lee's constant accusations than I'd originally thought possible.

She isn't the only person convinced Gabby is in love with me either. What had Edward said last night? "She's been in love with you for so much longer."

I don't want it to be true. Not after I asked her to come here to help me make another woman jealous. I've been talking about Jenna-Lee non-stop. The idea that she's helping me with Jenna-Lee while she might have feelings for me makes me feel like the biggest jerk in the world. No wonder things have been off between us since we arrived. The look of hurt on her face when I pulled away from her in the water flashes before my eyes, and the queasy feeling that I've had for the last kilometre or so worsens. Is this why she's putting distance between us? It would make sense.

How much did asking her to come here with me hurt her? Gabby is the last person I ever wanted to hurt. We continue jogging in silence, and I can feel the tension building between us with every step. When we finally reach the house, I know I can't keep avoiding this any longer.

"I'll be back soon," I say, slipping off my wet shoes.

Gabby looks at me with a mix of confusion and concern. "Where are you going?"

"I need to make a phone call," I say, not sure whether she'll follow me or not.

I make my way to the Saxby’s office, feeling like I'm about to do something illicit. I know I shouldn't be calling Bernadette, but I need to know. Thankfully, my bosses aren’t in the office. I’ll have to explain to them later that I made a call.

"Bernadette, it's Aaron," I say as soon as soon as Gabby’s friend answers the landline at the community house.

"Aaron? Is everything okay? Is Gabby okay?"

"She's fine."

But not really. And Gabby will kill me for this, but I can't bring myself to ask my best friend straight out if I'm her mystery guy. Things are so strained between us already, and I'm afraid of doing any more damage to our friendship.

There's a slight pause. "Then why are you calling me? Shouldn't you be busy making Jenna-Lee jealous?"

I choose to ignore the hint of disgust in Bernadette's voice and press on with the question that has haunted me for the past ten minutes. "Gabby informed me on the flight over here that she's in love with somebody, and she won't tell me who he is."

"I really don't have time for this, Aaron. The house is currently being overrun by-"

"Just tell me it's not me, and I'll go."

Bernadette sighs deeply. "You need to talk to her about it."

"Things are…weird between us. Please," I plead. "Just tell me it isn't me."

"You know Gabby is going to kill both of us for having this conversation, right?"

I fall into the desk chair behind me, now one hundred percent certain I'm her mystery man. "How did I not know about this?"

I felt sick before, but it's nothing compared to what I feel right now.

"Aaron, I have to go."

"What am I going to do?"

I hear her hesitate.

"Please, Bernie, tell me what to do. You have to help me."

She makes a frustrated noise. "You're in love with Jenna-Lee, right?"

"I think so."

I came here with every intention of making Jenna-Lee mine again. I can't explain why I feel such a connection to the woman, I just do. The chemistry was instantaneous, and even though she isn't perfect, who is? I don't know much about love, but I know that loving someone means overlooking their flaws no matter how big they are.

I love Gabby too, but it's a different kind of love. We've always been friends, and I like it that way. Gabby is so much more to me than a girlfriend. She's above all the girls I've met in my lifetime. No one compares to her. Friendship has always been the safe option for us, and until this week away, I thought it was the only way to guarantee that we will always have each other.

"You think so?" Bernadette asks.

I can practically hear her shaking her head at the other end of the line. "What's your point?" I ask.

"My point is that Gabby is finally trying to get over you."

"The whole dating agency thing?"

"Yes. Finding out you're in love with Jenna-Lee was pretty hard on her, Aaron. So, just…just let her get over you. She needs to move on. I have to go."

"Right. Thanks."

"Aaron," she says before I can hang up. "It might be better if Gabby never knew we had this conversation, and you forget you know. Let her keep some dignity while she's stuck on that island watching you with Jenna-Lee. See you when you get back."

I drag my feet back to the room, unsure of what to say to Gabby now. 'I'm sorry for being an oblivious idiot who had no idea how you felt about me'? That apology won't cut it at all. Bernadette said that Gabby is getting over me, so maybe I shouldn’t say anything. Maybe it's best to let Gabby keep her dignity and pretend she doesn't feel that way about me.

Gabby

Sitting on the edge of the bed, I try to breathe through my anxiety. I was so sure that I had given myself away to Aaron before he left me to make a call - that he now knows how I feel. But he never said anything. It's tempting to convince myself that he doesn't know. It's not completely out of the realm of possibility. He's been clueless for years about my feelings, and thank God for that. The only thing worse than this week of watching him pine after Jenna-Lee would be another talk about how much he values our friendship. I feel like I'm walking on eggshells, waiting for my feelings to be discovered at any moment.

As I step out of the bathroom, drying my hair after a quick shower, I freeze when I see the way Aaron is looking at me. Panic washes over me instantly. Oh my God, he knows.

I have the sudden urge to burst into laughter. Aaron just looks so...so shocked. Almost as if he’s seeing me for the first time. He had no clue back at home, but after one day of being here on this island with him, one day of 'pretending' to be in love with him, I've given everything away. I tried so hard to keep my feelings hidden, but my secret is out.

Looking away from him, I throw my wet towel onto the bed. "Where have you been? It's almost midday."

I dread what's coming next. I can already hear him telling me how flattered he is, how he values our friendship way too much to mess with it, or something along those lines. No matter what he says, it will be a cringe-worthy moment I'm sure I'll never be able to forget or live down. I absolutely hate that there’s a tiny part of me that hopes now he’s learned the truth, he's had some sort of epiphany and realises he feels the same way. That he'll tell me Jenna-Lee really means nothing to him at all and I’m the woman he wants now.

"I'm getting in the shower."

I nearly gape at him. That's it? He has just uncovered the biggest secret of my life and he's going to take a shower? Forget a cringe-worthy conversation that I have to suffer through. Obviously, my feelings don't even warrant a mention. The small amount of hope I’ve been holding onto curls up and dies. Of course, he doesn't feel the same way. He loves Jenna-Lee.

Well, this is closure, isn't it? I swallow over the lump in my throat. Perhaps part of me might have always wondered about whether he could return my feelings if he knew how I felt, but not anymore. This moment will only make it easier for me to move on. He rips his shirt over his head, exposing his perfect chest, muscled from all the time he spends at the gym and outdoors. All that tanned perfect muscle. Normally, he wouldn’t think twice about stripping in front of me, but he doesn’t usually watch me as he does so. Today, he is. Possibly, he's looking for more signs or confirmation of how I feel about him - about how he affects me.

And like the rest of my secrets, my response is clear on display. My heart hammers against my ribcage, heat sweeping through me and colouring my skin in a way that broadcasts everything.

Aaron

Gabby turns away from me as I strip off, but I notice the slight part to her lips and the colour staining her cheeks. Is she breathing faster? How did I miss that before? My reaction to her arousal is instantaneous, and I'm hard in an instant. I walk into the bathroom and step straight into the cold spray without bothering with the hot tap. For so long, I tried not to see Gabby in that way that it still feels unnatural to react this way.

Our summer at the Cape, when I was seventeen, I realized she had the body of a woman, but I felt guilty for thinking about her sexually. Until yesterday, I had managed to keep my desires for my best friend under control. However, our pretence of being lovers during this trip has completely unleashed those feelings. I know Gabby so well, but I have no idea what she likes in the bedroom. Suddenly, that is all I can think about. What’s her favourite position? Does she like it fast or slow? What does she taste like? What does she sound like?

I don't know what’s more painful – the sting of the cold water on my skin, or the painful throb of my erection. As I pick up the soap, I imagine lathering up her thighs and sliding between them.

A sharp rap on the door interrupts my thoughts. "We're going to be late."

"I'll be out in a minute," I reply, fighting the urge to invite her to join me.

After turning off the water, I quickly dry off and get dressed.

As I step out of the bathroom, I say, "We need to go. We're going to be late," intentionally avoiding eye contact to conceal the lingering effect of my fantasies.

She closes her magazine. "I was ready ten minutes ago."

I motion for her to lead us out. "Come on then."

Pursuing Jenna-Lee is now out of the question; I feel like the biggest jerk for not recognizing Gabby's feelings sooner. I'll have to stay away from Jenna-Lee while we're here and hope Gabby doesn't suspect anything.

When we arrive for the second meal of the day, everyone is already seated on the terrace. We fill our plates and look for unoccupied chairs. I curse under my breath when I spot the only empty chairs left on the terrace.

"There aren't any seats left," Gabby says.

"Actually, there are two," I inform her.

Deluding myself that I could stay away from Jenna-Lee during our stay here was a mistake. Reluctantly, I point to the last vacant chairs in front of August and Jenna-Lee.

"Over there," I say.

"Perfect," Gabby mutters as she heads to the table where August and Jenna-Lee sit.

I follow Gabby with dread, the guilt of how I've treated her weighing on me. August's playboy smile and Jenna-Lee's seductive gaze spell impending disaster. Despite my intentions to protect Gabby's dignity by not discussing her feelings, we're both avoiding the truth. I've hurt her and can't apologize for using her as a pawn in my and August's game. I'm trapped in my own hell, unsure how to escape. What if I lose Gabby, the one person who truly matters, even if I succeed in winning Jenna-Lee?

Next episode

Aaron

My mission to set things right with Gabby after our kiss didn’t go well. She told me everything was fine, but it isn't. I can feel that things aren't right between us. She has every right to be pissed at me about tonight, about the fact that I kissed her and then said I was thinking about someone else, but she won't even talk to me about it. In fact, it seems like she can't wait to get away from me. Whatever is wrong between us is bigger than tonight, I'm realizing now. I can't understand why she seems to be putting distance between us, but she is. She's shutting me out. I'm losing her. I'm losing my best friend, and I have no idea what I did, or how to change it.

Getting to sleep takes longer than it should as the day replays on repeat in my head. Eventually, though, I finally nod off.

The lamp in the corner of the street casts no light as snow pours down onto the deserted street. I shiver as I stand in my t-shirt and boxers, my teeth chattering from the cold and hunger clawing at my stomach. Suddenly, a path appears in front of me, winding its way up to a red brick house.

I tentatively knock on the door, but there’s no answer. I look around and see that the door has vanished, in its place a foggy window. I bang on the glass and, when I stop, a table appears with a family of four: two dark-haired children, one faceless man, and Gabby.

Relief floods through me as I take in her familiar face. I can almost taste the food that looks so appetizing, smell the warmth of the house. The hunger becomes unbearable, and I rap urgently on the window.

Gabby stands up. Is she finally coming to get me at last? She leaves the room for a moment then returns with a baking dish. The man's voice floats up to me: "Lasagne."

"I know it's your favourite meal," she says softly before setting it down on the table in front of him and cutting him a piece.

Lasagne is my favourite meal. And who is this assclown she’s cooking for? Why is he getting lasagne, and I'm not?

"Gabby," I call, banging on the window again.

She ignores me. It’s as if she doesn’t know I'm here. Or she simply doesn’t care.

The man wraps his arm around Gabby's waist, pulling her onto his lap, and then he dips his head and kisses her.

"Gabby," I call again, banging on the window with both fists now. "Gabby, let me in. Gabby!"

She said we’d both move on, that we’d have different priorities, but I can’t believe she’d forget about me completely. That she’d ignore me. My life means nothing without her in it - she’s everything to me.

"Aaron!"

Gabby is standing over me when I open my eyes. "Bad dream?"

More like a nightmare.

"I was hungry."

She nods. She is the only person who knows how much I fear being hungry again, how being hungry reminds me of days when I felt helpless and abandoned by my parents. I sit up, and she comes around the back of the couch, putting her arms around my neck from behind. She rests her chin on my head, giving me comfort in a way no one else has ever been able to. I place my hand over hers, grateful that this feels normal, even if everything else between us isn’t right now.

I can't recall the last time I felt so low, so depressed. Following yesterday's events and the realization that my friendship with Gabby is at risk, my subconscious is confronting my deepest fear. I'm now dreaming about her mystery man as a faceless dude who keeps her from seeing me. I hate feeling like I'm on the outside looking in, watching her with him.

"Do you want me to get you something to eat?" she asks.

I stand up. "Breakfast on Heaven is something you have to experience. Come on, let’s get dressed."

If I'm going to fix what's wrong between us and prove no one will ever come between us, I need to work harder at putting our friendship back to how it used to be. Kissing her made everything worse, but she was already keeping secrets from me before we got here. Hopefully, spending some time together will help her remember how great we are as friends, how her friendship means everything to me. I should probably avoid touching her too, since that ended disastrously last time. Meaning, we’ll have to pretend to be together without the public displays of affection.

Once we're ready, we walk downstairs together. Breakfast is served in the dining room, but the doors leading into the ballroom and onto the terrace are open, and tables and chairs are set up outside. I smell the salty sea breeze rolling in off the ocean as I guide her to the long buffet table laden with everything one might desire for breakfast.

Gabby surveys the spread of cooked breakfast, pastries, and fruits, contemplating where to begin. We load our plates and gratefully receive steaming mugs of freshly brewed coffee from one of the servers. Seated at a table on the terrace, we enjoy a view of the early morning sun casting its golden glow on the water when we turn to the side. If I turn around, I'm greeted by the majestic mountain range behind me.

"Mmm, these are good." Gabby says after biting into a chocolate-filled croissant. "Here, try some."

Before I can stop myself, I imagine licking the gooey chocolate off her fingers, before conducting a more thorough examination of how she tastes all over. I want to hear her moan into my mouth the way she did last night when I kissed her, but that’s not going to fix our friendship, is it? I'm supposed to be keeping my hands off her. My heart races as I accept the piece of chocolate-filled croissant from her hand, fighting to suppress the overwhelming desire to taste her. Exercising control over my instincts, I allow her to withdraw her hand. When she licks the chocolate off her fingers, however, my groin floods with heat.

She frowns at the plate in front of her. "I wonder how many calories are in these things."

"Who cares? You're on holiday, and since when do you worry about calories?"

"Since I'm eating this for breakfast."

I narrow my eyes at her. "You're not one of those women who worries about everything she eats."

“I know.” She shrugs and looks away. “But I want to be in good shape when I join Carly's agency."

I would laugh if she didn’t look so serious. “Most women would kill for your shape, Gab. And if a guy doesn't like you the way you are, he's not worth it.”

Her eyes flick up to mine, and her forced smile has my gut knotting. I suddenly know exactly where these insecurities stem from. This mystery man of hers - the one she won’t tell me about - has left her full of self-doubt, and if she ever tells me who he is, I might just wring his damn neck.

"You didn't need the makeover," I tell her.

"Carly and Bernadette think I hide behind my clothes - that I don't let myself stand out."

My hands clench as I think about them telling her something like that. She's always been stunning. Just because she's comfortable in casual clothes and doesn't flaunt her body all the time doesn't mean she's hiding.

"Well, I'm a guy, and I don't think there's anything wrong with what you wear."

She shrugs. "They're right, I don't stand out. I've never worried about trying to make guys see me, but…"

"Now you are," I finish, trying to tamp down my irritation.

She nods.

"Because of this mystery man of yours? Because he didn't see you?"

"No," she says, looking away. "He didn't see me."

The hurt in her voice cuts right through me. I'm really beginning to hate this asshole she's fallen for.

"If I can have your attention," Edward announces. "Please take the morning to enjoy the island. Lunch will be served at midday, and you will be briefed on the afternoon's events from there."

Once Edward finishes speaking, I try to shift the conversation away from her unknown man, knowing it's the best move. Although I'm still itching to learn his identity, I don't want to cause further conflict between us. I just want to enjoy the time we have together right now.

I sit back, interlinking my fingers behind my head. "What do you want to do this morning?"

Gabby gazes down at her empty plate before frowning and looking in the direction of the beach. "Jog and a swim?"

"Jogging?”

I haven't gone jogging since Gabby was on her health kick a few years ago and she made me run with her.

"It's a great way to see the beach. But if you're worried you can't keep up…" she teases.

"I can keep up," I reply, unable to refuse when she challenges me like that.

Her eyes twinkle with mischief. "So you say."

My mood lifts when she grins at me. "Oh, I most definitely can keep up, Gabby."

The words are laden with innuendo, and she stops smiling. Her eyes widen before darkening, sending an electric jolt of lust to the pit of my stomach. She leans forward slowly.

"Why don't you prove it to me?"

I have to remind myself that she isn't inviting me to bed with her. Unfortunately, my body doesn't get the memo.

"With pleasure," I croak out.

She stands up. "Come on then."

I can't stand up right now without demonstrating just how much I want to "keep up" with her, which will not solve our friendship issues.

"I'll be right out," I say, feigning further interest in my coffee.

"I'll be waiting for you."

Gabby

What was I thinking, I wonder as I head back to our room? I’m supposed to be getting over him, moving on, and letting my heart heal. Yet I flirted with him shamelessly over breakfast. Idiot! Did I not learn all the lessons I needed to last night?

I slip my running shoes on and start lacing them up when Aaron walks into the room. He doesn't say a word as he removes one shirt and puts another on.

"Ready?" I ask him, grabbing the drink bottle I brought with me to the island.

"I'm ready."

We make our way down to the beach in silence, stopping at the large industrial-sized kitchen to fill my bottle up with filtered water. After some gentle stretching, I turn to him. "Try and keep up."

I shoot off down the beach, and Aaron takes off after me. We jog for a couple of kilometres in companionable silence.

"Race you?" I say after a while.

"Where to?"

I point to a rock formation that juts out onto the sand, five hundred metres or so down the beach.

"On the count of three?" I ask him.

He nods.

"One, two-"

I never say three, I just sprint. Aaron races after me. I have a head start, but his legs are longer. He runs past the rocks just before I do. We both stop to catch our breaths.

“Told you I could keep up,” he says with a cocky smirk.

“You win. I guess I should give you your prize now.”

Aaron stands still as I walk up to him, run my tongue over my bottom lip, lean forward and squirt him in the face with my water bottle before taking off running again. He chases after me, and when he catches up with me, he wraps an arm around my waist and lifts me up. The drink bottle falls out of my hand and lands in the sand.

“You know, Gabby, you’re all hot. I think you need to cool down.”

I squeal as he throws me over his shoulder and runs toward the water.

“Aaron put me down!”

“As you wish.”

“Aaro-”

The rest of his name is swallowed by the splash as I plunge into the water. I surface, coughing and thrashing. Aaron laughs, offering me his hand, but I just scowl at him and clamber onto my feet unaided. Taking a moment to wring the water from my ponytail, I turn to face him.

"You're an arse," I grouch, putting both my palms against his chest in an attempt to push him into the water.

"That's what you get for cheating, Gabby," he retorts, hooking his foot around the backs of my ankles and trying to sweep my legs out from under me.

I grip his shoulders for balance, but he quickly snatches me around the waist and dunks us both beneath the surface. As we break the surface again, his arm still around me and my hands still clinging to him, time ceases to exist. All I can hear is the deafening beat of my heart echoing in my ribcage as his gaze meets mine. Something unfathomable passes between us. When his eyes finally drop to my lips, it feels like the most natural thing in the world to close my eyes and lean into him - but instead of granting me the kiss that I yearn for, he pries himself away abruptly.

"We should get back," he says roughly.

My voice is laced with bitterness as I reply: "Of course. I'm sure you want to get back to Jenna-Lee," feeling utterly humiliated.

I start walking out of the water, but not before Aaron catches the look of hurt on my face. He grabs my arm, swinging me around to face him.

"Jesus, Gabby. What's going on? What am I doing wrong?"

"Nothing," I say, not looking at him. I pull my arm out of his grasp. "We need to get back for lunch."

I pick up my drink bottle and try to keep it together. I've just made a complete fool of myself. From the way he practically pushed me away, he finds the idea of kissing me without an audience completely unappealing. But then why would he suddenly be interested in me now? Our kiss last night messed with my head even more than I thought it did. I mean, I just stood there and wished for him to kiss me.

I begin jogging back to our room, hating the feeling of my wet sneakers on my feet. Aaron falls into place beside me, and I wonder if there is any way to save my heart from evisceration while I'm trapped on this island with him. If he doesn't know how I feel about him now, it will be a miracle.

I no longer know how to continue playing my part in this foolish game without giving everything away. And when the truth comes out, it will destroy everything. Is there any way to prepare for the fallout?

Next episode

Aaron

As I make my way across the dance floor towards Gabby, I can feel Jenna-Lee's disappointment behind me. She was clearly upset that I cut our dance short, and her pouting is hard to miss. But my attention is focused on August and what he said to make Gabby frown. I need to know what's going on, and I can't enjoy dancing with anyone until I do.

Besides, my head is full of all the things Gabby was saying before August interrupted us. She threw me for a loop when she said our priorities will change when we’re partnered up. I can't imagine us being any different with each other, even when we are both involved in relationships. But clearly Gabby does.

I don't know how to deal with that.

I always pictured us sharing every moment that matters; every moment that is important. Until today, when she has sprung the whole dating agency thing on me, I have never really thought about what it would mean when she finally settles down. Eventually, however, she will meet a man she wants to marry; someone else she will share the important moments in her life with. She will let someone else in, and then she won't need me anymore. The thought is like an arrow piercing my heart.

I stalk across the dance floor and cut back in, ignoring the way August smirks at me. I also choose to ignore the way Gabby seems to fit against me better than Jenna-Lee does.

"You and August seemed to be having quite the conversation," I say as we begin to move around the ballroom once more together.

"We were."

"What did he say?"

"He told me he was going to ask me out once, but you told him not to."

"He's just trying to draw you into the game."

"So it isn’t true?"

"That he wanted to ask you out?"

She nods.

"At the time I thought it would be a really bad idea."

"Why didn't you tell me?"

"See, this is exactly what August does–"

"I’m surprised, Aaron. We're supposed to tell each other everything."

Is she angry or not? I can't tell. I did her a favour, saving her heartbreak. I didn't know August well when he asked me if he was a good match for Gabby, but now I'm glad I made that decision. August doesn’t have an ounce of genuine emotion for women.

Gabby doesn't look impressed with my answer. It's bad enough things are changing between us without August trying to cause trouble.

"What else did August say?" I ask when she remains quiet.

She sighs. "He's not buying it."

"What do you mean he's not buying it?"

"He doesn't believe that you're in love with me, or that we're together."

I told August that Gabby was like a sister and best friend, all rolled into one. Now those words haunt me. Not just because they give August more ammunition to cause trouble between us, but because they mock the thoughts I’ve been having about my best friend ever since she opened the door to me this morning. My resolve to never complicate my friendship with Gabby by getting physical with her has been stretched to near-breaking point. I glance over and see August twirling Jenna-Lee around the dance floor. Gabby watches them too. The idea is to make Jenna-Lee believe I'm with Gabby, but if I want August to back off and leave Gabby alone, it's equally important that August believes it too.

"I obviously need to work harder at convincing him then," I tell her.

When Gabby looks up at me, I brush my lips against hers for the second time today, letting them linger a little longer this time. The gentle contact sends sparks shooting through me. When I break away to look at her, she is looking back at me with an expression of wonder. Her dark eyes are filled with liquid heat that makes me feel more off-balance than all the cocktails I’ve consumed so far tonight.

We stare at each other for a moment before I lower my head again and capture her lips with mine, seeking to explore whether the sparks I experienced during our last kiss were a fluke. When her lips part beneath mine, I don't hesitate to take what she’s offering me. Damn, she tastes like the decadent chocolate torte we had for dessert and the fortified wine served with it. Addictive. She feels so good - so right – pressed against me as my tongue slides along hers.

She twines her arms around my neck, pulling me closer, arching into me. My blood goes from hot to boiling in the blink of an eye at the way she hungrily kisses me back. My hand tangles in her silky hair as she presses her soft curves against me. Need hums beneath my skin and throbs low in my belly, as fantasy blurs with reality. I burn with the need to get closer to her. She moans into my mouth as our kiss turns into something more heated. Would she make that same noise in bed when we're together?

It is her soft gasp as my growing arousal presses against her that smashes through the fantasy and brings me back to reality. God, what the hell is wrong with me?

When I pull away, her cheeks are rosy, her lips bruised, but it’s the confusion washing over her features that hits me hardest. She isn’t the only one confused. What the hell did I just do? What the hell was I thinking kissing her like that? Gabby is my best friend- the person who means the most to me; the only person I can’t live without.

"I'm sorry, Gabby." I pull away. "I forgot who I was with."

The look on her face, the hurt in her eyes… Shit! That was not the right thing to say.

“Gab-”

She steps out of my arms and glares at me. "You're sorry? You forgot who you were with? Did you think I was Jenna-Lee?"

"No!" I deny hotly.

She doesn't believe me; I see the doubt in her eyes. And I’m not sure what to say to put things right. First, I practically forced my affections on her, kissing her without warning, and then I said the worst thing possible. I always knew getting physical with Gabby in any way would be a mistake, it’s why I’ve been so careful to never complicate our friendship that way. Yet here I am, complicating everything.

It couldn’t have happened at a worse time either. She’s keeping things from me and telling me it’s inevitable we’ll drift apart. Then I go and kiss her like that.

All these changes… they’re making me act funny and messing with my head.

"Aaron.” Edward puts his hand on my shoulder. “A word please."

I need to try and explain myself, I need to fix things, but Gabby is already walking away. Maybe I shouldn’t have asked her to come with me. I thought we'd have fun together, but what's happening between us doesn't feel fun; it feels downright scary. Gabby is the most important person in my life. How am I supposed to focus on anything when things aren't right between us? I can't. Things with Jenna-Lee will have to wait. I'll fix things with Gabby, and then maybe I can actually concentrate on winning Jenna-Lee back.

"You could be in trouble there," Edward says as we both watch Gabby leave the ballroom.

"Big trouble," I agree.

I have to work out how to fix this situation between us before it spins any further out of control. Unfortunately, I have no idea how I am going to do that. I don't understand how I could screw up something so much without even trying to.

More importantly, how do I fix it? Should I tell Gabby I was thinking about her; about what it would be like to go to bed with her while we were kissing? Or should I allow her to believe I was thinking about Jenna-Lee? Both options are shitty ones. There isn't a thing I can say to fix this. Gabby has always been a forgiving person, but if I don't stop acting like an idiot, we might not be on speaking terms by the time we leave the island.

I turn to Edward. "By any chance, can this wait until the morning?"

"Of course. You should go after her. It would be unwise to make her wait any longer for you than she already has."

"It's only been a minute."

Edward chuckles softly. "But she has been in love with you for that much longer."

I force a smile. "Right."

"I admit I was surprised when you said you were bringing Gabby to this couples' week away. The last time I saw you, you seemed completely unaware of how she felt about you."

My smile grows even more strained. Thank God Gabby has her Mr. X. If Gabby actually had feelings for me, it would make this situation that much worse, and that would be saying something.

Edward claps me on the back. "We'll speak tomorrow. Go fix things with your lady."

Gabby

I march straight into our room, throw myself on the bed, and pull the covers over my head. I blink away the tears that are threatening and concentrate on my breathing. Agreeing to this had been the biggest mistake of my life. I have effectively marooned myself on an island with the man I love and the woman he is in love with. What type of person would do something so masochistic? The kind who would do anything for her best friend, that's who.

Even with my grand plans to move on, my heart may not survive our week away, especially if he kisses me again. Jenna-Lee is the only reason Aaron would kiss me like that; that amazing, magical, make-you-tremble-at-the-knees kiss. It isn't about me at all. And isn't that why I am so mad? Because for a moment, I'd forgotten we were acting; that I was supposed to be acting. Instead, I kissed him without holding anything back, without holding my heart back. For the first time, I felt what it was like to kiss someone I’m so head over heels for, I wanted to make love to him on the dance floor.

And for a moment, I believed he wanted me too.

It was the second time that day I’d made that mistake - believing he wanted me, that he might even be attracted to me, only to have cold harsh reality set in quickly enough. He forgot who he was with. That’s what he’d said. Cue my heart shattering to pieces all over again. And it’s getting awfully tiring pretending it doesn’t break my heart to know he loves her and not me. But pretend I must because any minute now, Aaron is going to come through the door wanting to talk about what just happened. He’s going to try to set things straight. Talking about it is the last thing I want to do. I don't know what to say to him.

Letting out a sigh, I slip out of the bed, grab my pyjamas, and head for the shower.

When I walk out of the bathroom, Aaron is sitting on the couch.

"Hey," he says when he sees me.

"Hey."

"I would have been up sooner, but Edward-"

"It's fine. I wanted a shower before bed anyway."

He studies me for a second. "Can we talk?"

I want to tell him I'm tired. I want to go to bed and pretend tonight never happened, but Aaron isn't going to let that happen. I just have to get this over with. I reluctantly take a seat next to him on the couch.

"About before," he starts.

"Forget it," I tell him.

"Forget it?"

"I don't need to talk about it. I don't want to talk about it. I just want to forget the whole thing."

He looks surprised for a moment, but then his expression changes to one of concern. "I'm sorry for being a giant tool since we arrived here. I just want us to be okay," he says to me.

"We're fine," I tell him. "Stop worrying."

I'm about to stand up when he takes my hand and holds it in his. "You know how much your friendship means to me, right?"

I nod and try not to cry. Friendship is all he wants from me. I know this. I've always known this. But God, it hurts more now than it ever has before. I can't think of a way I could feel worse tonight.

"I don't want us to change," he tells me, his voice thick with emotion. "I don't want things between us to be different."

"I know." My throat is so tight I can barely swallow.

"I'm not good with change, Gabby."

"I know," I say again.

"I need you to promise me something." He holds my hand tightly in his own. "Promise me we'll always be in each other's lives."

"Yeah, of course we will be," I answer him, looking down at the floor. "I should go to bed," I tell him softly, trying not to look into his eyes for too long.

Aaron tries to smile, but he can't quite manage it. "Sleep well," he tells me. "I have no idea what Cain and Edward have planned for tomorrow."

"I will."

He lets go of my hand, but not before squeezing it lightly one more time for reassurance. "Goodnight, Gabby."

I force a smile, trying to mask the pain, but it's no use. I know things will never be the same between us.

"Goodnight," I whisper, trying to keep the tears at bay.

As I make my way to bed, I can't help but think about what Aaron said. Promising to always be in each other's lives feels like a band-aid on a gaping wound. It's not enough. I need to find a way to move on, to let go of this one-sided love that's been consuming me for so long. But how? How do you let go of the person who has been your everything? The person who has been there for you through thick and thin?

I climb into bed, but sleep eludes me. Instead, I lay there, staring up at the ceiling, replaying the events of the night over and over in my head. I can still feel the warmth of Aaron's lips on mine, the way his hand felt on the small of my back, the way his body felt pressed against mine. It's torture to know that it meant nothing to him, that it was all just an act and that he was thinking of someone else. But I can't keep torturing myself like this. I need to find a way to move on, to let go of this love that's been holding me back for so long. With that thought in mind, I finally drift off to sleep, hoping that tomorrow will bring a new perspective and a fresh start.

Next episode

Gabby

Perhaps dinner and dancing won't be so bad, I try to convince myself as Aaron holds open the bedroom door for me. If I think of this evening as dinner and dancing with my friend, I won't be so focused on the fact that I'm here helping the man I love get his ex-girlfriend back. Tonight the show really starts, and the chances of giving away how I feel about him, after years of keeping it a secret, are high enough to make me a little anxious.

"August will want to dance with you tonight," Aaron tells me as we approach the dining room.

"Why?" I ask.

"Because you're here with me.”

I stop and glare at him. "Because of this stupid game you two insist on playing, right?"

"That would be the main reason," he admits.

"Because there couldn't be any other reason," I mutter under my breath. "Because he couldn't just dance with me because he wants to dance with me."

"Huh?"

I know Aaron is more than likely right in this instance, but it’s one more prick to my ego that it has probably never occurred to him that a man might just want to dance with me because he likes me. He said I look beautiful, but he doesn’t see me as an attractive woman.

"Nothing. When are you going to stop?" I ask him.

"Stop what?"

"This game," I say with annoyance. "This stupid, idiotic, and completely outrageous game."

"It's over. I'm done. I'm out.” He pauses. “Once I get Jenna-Lee back."

I can't help but doubt his words. "Sure," I say and keep walking.

"I will," he says, trying to keep up with me.

I shake my head. "Because you're in love, right?"

"You couldn't be more surprised than I am," Aaron says.

"I wouldn't be too sure about that," I murmur.

"And once I get her back, I won't be interested in playing anymore. I won't need to."

"Great," I say.

"You know," Aaron says to me. "It's kind of cool we're in love at the same time. You know what I'm going through."

Cool is not the word I would use to describe the situation; not when I'm in love with him and he's in love with someone else.

"Yeah, well, as I’ve mentioned, I'm trying to get over it."

"Did he hurt you?" Aaron asks, his voice suddenly full of concern. "Because I'll-"

"You'll what? Kick his ass?" I ask, smiling. The idea of him kicking his own ass makes quite an amusing picture. "This isn't high school, Aaron."

"I know that, but no-one hurts you and gets away with it."

"It's not like he did it intentionally. He doesn't even know."

"You're making excuses for him.”

I hope Aaron will drop the subject when we enter the dining room. Music filters in from the jazz band playing in the ballroom. The ballroom and dining room are separated by several sets of double doors that are all currently open. It looks like most of the employees of Saxby and Saxby advertising are downstairs already, milling around, and drinking the pre-dinner drinks that are being served. Aaron puts his hand on the small of my back as we walk up to the bar, and orders drinks. When Aaron takes one of the three seats at the bar, instead of making a move to mingle, I'm surprised.

"Is it Tim Peterman?" he asks.

"What?"

"Your mystery guy? Is it Tim Peterman?"

"Why would you think that?"

"I don't know. He's an alright looking guy."

"If you like brawn and no brains."

"I mean, it’s not a no.”

I sigh. "No, it's not Tim Peterman."

"Is it Michael Mackenzie?"

"No."

"I know." He leans forward, clicking his fingers, clearly trying to think of a name. "It's Damien Price, isn't it?"

"The balding life insurance salesman who visits the shop every Thursday? No, Aaron, and seriously, what does that say about my taste?"

"You were with Kyle Marsden, and he was completely bald."

"Well, he had other…qualities that compensated for that."

"Like what?"

"You don't want to know."

He makes a face. "You're right. I don't want to know."

I laugh. "Are we finished?"

"Not even close. Is it Daniel Wheaton?"

"I thought you wanted me to get over him."

"I think you'll have better luck getting over him if you tell me who he is."

I shake my head and roll my eyes. "I'm not going to give you his name, so stop."

"I think you need to talk about him, Gabby."

"I have talked to someone about him."

I answer without thinking, and the hurt on his face makes me feel terrible.

"Who? Does Bernadette know? Does Carly know?"

"It doesn't matter." I try to dodge the question.

"They both know, don't they?" he persists, and I can feel my resolve breaking.

"Yes, they both know," I finally admit. "But I didn't tell them, they just guessed."

"So if I guess, you'll tell me?" Aaron asks, with some frustration.

I nod, albeit reluctantly, knowing he’ll never guess. "Yes, I'll tell you."

"Is it James Prentice?"

I hold up a hand to put an end to the questioning. "Okay, stop. You've had enough guesses for one night."

"We're not done yet," Aaron says quickly, his eyes narrowing on August and Jenna-Lee as the couple approach us.

"You look stunning tonight, Gabby," August says.

I offer him a polite smile. "Thank you."

"I hope Aaron won't mind if I steal a dance with you later this evening," August continues, and I am torn. I don't want to be part of their game, but Aaron brought me along to help him win Jenna-Lee back. Dancing with August gives Aaron the chance to dance with Jenna-Lee.

Forcing the smile to stay on my face, I nod. "I'd like that."

I feel Aaron tense beside me immediately. The smile August gives Aaron and Aaron's answering scowl makes me want to hit both of them over the head.

Jenna-Lee leans forward and toys with one of the buttons on Aaron's shirt. "I guess that leaves us free to dance."

"I guess it does," he says to her, with a sexy smile that I've never been on the receiving end of.

The moment Jenna-Lee and August are drawn into a conversation with another couple, however, Aaron's scowl returns.

"What the hell, Gabby?" he demands angrily after Jenna-Lee and August walk away.

He's angry with me, but it's not like I can stay out of their game now anyway. Refusing August would only encourage him to try harder, and I don't want to have to spend the whole week running away from him or fobbing off his advances. It would be polite to dance once or twice with him. I can still make it clear that I only see him as Aaron's work colleague, all the while providing Aaron with some much needed time with Jenna-Lee. Aaron should be thanking me for that.

"Dancing with August will give you the time you need with Jenna-Lee."

"You're not supposed to be bait. I don't want you to get involved in this," he says.

I shake my head in disbelief. "I became part of this the moment I agreed to come along this week, Aaron."

"I didn't think this through."

"This is the opportunity you need to win Jenna-Lee over, just like we planned. It's perfect, actually. While August has his eye on me, you're getting closer to Jenna-Lee. Isn't that what you want?"

"I don't want August to think he's winning by getting to you. He will do everything he can to try and 'win you away from me'."

I feel the anger building inside me. "You think I don't know that? I know he's only interested in provoking you. Do you think I'm an idiot?"

"No. Of course not. It's just that-"

"It's just that you can't bear the thought of August thinking he's winning," I finish for him. "You're both ridiculous."

At that moment, Edward announces that dinner is about to be served, and we sit down with everyone else at the long dining table. I’m so angry that I turn to talk to the person on the other side of me to carry out a conversation. Aaron's bull-headed request that I do nothing that makes August think I am falling for his charms is going to interfere with the stupid plan we came here with. His male pride hates the idea of August thinking he's winning anything.

By the time dinner is finished, I've barely spoken more than a handful of words to Aaron. When the music begins to play, people drift onto the dance floor. Eventually, the person I was talking to for most of the evening leaves with their companion, and Aaron stands up. When I look at him, he holds out his arm.

"Come on," he says to me, inclining his head towards the dance floor.

I think about refusing him for a moment, but then I accept his arm, and we walk onto the dance floor together. As he wraps his arms around my waist, and I wrap my arms around his neck, I can't help but feel emotional. I’ve been in love with him for years, but now he’s in love with someone else, and I'm helping him get her back. It's a strange situation to be in, but I'm trying my best to be there for him.

"August was right about one thing. You do look beautiful tonight."

I smile, feeling my cheeks flush. "Thank you. You look good, too."

His eyes flit over my face. "I'm sorry about earlier. I didn't mean to push you about your mystery man."

"It's okay," I say, trying to keep my voice even.

"We're okay, right?" Aaron asks me, and I nod, trying to hide the hurt I feel.

"It feels like things are changing," he says, concern written all over his face. "You're keeping things from me. Things you tell Carly and Bernadette, but not me."

I take a deep breath. "We have, but change is a natural part of life," I tell him. "You're in love-"

"So?" he interrupts.

"So,” I say slowly. “The woman you're in love with doesn't like me at all. You said yourself she never liked you spending time with me, and now that she thinks we're together, she'll hate me even more."

Aaron's expression changes from perplexed to angry as I trail off. "Is that what you think? That I'm going to let her come between us?"

I look away, but he takes hold of my chin, turning my face so that I'm looking at him. "Are you planning on letting the next guy you date come between us?" he asks, his voice full of emotion.

"It's not as simple as that, Aaron," I reply, feeling the tears welling up in my eyes. "You'll be spending more time with Jenna-Lee, and I'll be married one day, with children. We won't always be able to spend so much time together. There will be other priorities in our lives."

"No," he shakes his head. "We’ll never mean any less to each other. It will always be the two of us together."

I know he believes that. Before he fell in love with someone else, I believed it too. I lay my head against his chest as we dance, feeling the weight of his words as he pulls me closer, holds me tighter. I wanted him to be my forever, but he’s moving on and I have to, too. I can’t continue to love him the way I have. It will break me.

I’m so caught up in the moment, I startle when I hear August clear his voice.

"May I have this dance, Gabby?"

Aaron stops, and I can see he’s pissed off at August for interrupting us. Before he can spit venom at his rival, I look up at him. "You don't mind, right?"

Aaron’s eyes tick between mine, and he looks so unhappy my heart aches for him. But as we discussed earlier, this is his chance to dance with Jenna-Lee. He wants her back and the whole reason I’m here is to help him make that happen. So before he can protest, I move away from his embrace.

A muscle ticks in Aaron's jaw, a flash of sorrow darkening his eyes, but he eventually turns to Jenna-Lee.

"Would you like to dance?" he asks, seeing the other woman arch one perfectly sculpted eyebrow at him.

Jenna-Lee smiles and gracefully moves into his arms at the same time August reaches for me. When Aaron looks back at me, Jenna-Lee puts her hand on his cheek, forcing him to look at her. I want to look away, but I can’t.

Aaron is right; our plan does seem to be working. And that’s a good thing, right? This is what Aaron wants, and if he wants it, then I want it, because his happiness is as important to me as my own.

"Aaron is very lucky to have a friend like you," August says.

Tearing my gaze away from Aaron, I look at him. "Why is that?"

August gives me a knowing look. "It's obvious you're in love with him."

I shrug. "Yes, I've loved him since high school."

It's what I said earlier today.

"I believe you."

I stiffen and August doesn’t miss it.

"What I don't believe," August adds, "is that he feels the same way."

I already know Aaron doesn’t feel the same way I do, but August’s words still hurt. I have to force out some kind of denial. "Why would you say that?"

August wears a sympathetic look. "Aaron and I were on better terms some time ago. I asked him about you once. He told me you were a friend, and that the two of you would never be more than friends."

"Things change,” I lie.

"Yes, but I believed Aaron when he told me he would never see you that way."

"You can believe what you want. I know how Aaron feels about me."

"You're a very loyal person, aren't you? Tell me the truth; did he bring you along to distract me, because it's working."

I stare up at him. Is this just part of the game? It has to be. He’s using me to get to Aaron.

"I can see I've surprised you. He didn't tell you, did he?"

"Tell me what?"

"That I wanted to ask you out when I first met you."

"Then why didn't you?"

"Aaron didn't want me to. He said it would be messy if we got involved and it didn't work out."

I look across the floor to where Aaron and Jenna-Lee are still dancing. Aaron is looking back at us, and our eyes lock. Aaron is obviously still worried that I can’t handle myself with his rival; that I will fall victim to the game between them. Maybe he’s right to be concerned. Right now, I’m having trouble understanding whether this is part of the game or whether August is telling the truth. Did Aaron really tell August not to ask me out? And if that’s the case, why did he do that?

Aaron stalks across the dance floor towards us, his eyes never leaving mine, and I guess this is my chance to find out.

Next episode

Gabby

A large gong sounds, and Cain addresses us all. "Welcome, employees of Saxby and Saxby Advertising, and welcome partners. I hope the flight was comfortable. Tomorrow we'll start the activities, but tonight is for relaxation and rest. You'll need it."

As the crowd politely chuckles, a pit forms in my stomach, knowing I'll have to endure countless activities with the other couples while pretending to be Aaron's girlfriend. My mind races with anxiety, picturing each moment I'll have to ‘fake’ my feelings for the sake of this charade. All so he can win back the woman he really loves.

"Pre-dinner cocktails will be served at six. Please do not be late."

Once we finish our drinks, we're shown to our quarters. The room is large, its walls echoing the same azure hue as the sweeping ocean we flew over to arrive here. Glass double doors open onto a quaint balcony, offering a slice of tropical paradise just within reach. Inside, the main space features a luxurious king-sized bed and a plush couch, while an attached walk-in closet boasts ample room for our belongings. A door from the room leads to a shared bathroom, designed for use with the adjoining suite.

I place my suitcase on the bed and begin unpacking, attempting to divert my attention from the stark reality of there being only one bed in the room. Yet, no matter how hard I try, my thoughts keep returning to the idea of sleeping next to Aaron and the vivid images that accompany it. It feels absurd, I'm aware of that. Yet, it's a cruel twist of fate—I'm pretending to be the woman I yearn to be for him. How am I supposed to move on and get over him when each forced laugh and every orchestrated touch serves as a painful reminder of the relationship I'll never have with him?

Despite our 'just friends' label, the longing I harbour for him is unshakeable. Each item I extract from my suitcase transports me back to that shopping trip with my girlfriends at home. I remember the extravagant splurge on new lingerie, a frivolous purchase now mocking me with its silent promise of what could be. If only this week of playing the devoted girlfriend was reality. If only I wasn’t here to stoke the flames of Jenna-Lee's jealousy. Every moment is a tug-of-war between the charade we're playing and the reality of my feelings—an emotional paradox I must navigate with a brave face and a breaking heart.

Aaron clears his throat. "So, I'll take the couch, and you can take the bed. Unless you want to share.”

I look up from my suitcase, my heart racing at the possibilities his words suggest. I meet his gaze, and for a moment, I forget how to breathe when I think I glimpse a flash of heat there. Immediately, my body responds to what it thinks is a suggestion, a flush sweeping across my skin and my nipples tingling and tightening against the lace of my new bra.

Suddenly, Aaron turns away from me, breaking the spell. I look back at my suitcase, trying to steady my breathing, but it's too late; my body is already buzzing with anticipation of something I will never have.

As disappointment and confusion swirl within me, I try to shake off the desire and longing. I shouldn't be imagining that he wants me. He has never looked at me that way before, not in all the years we have known each other.

"Probably best if you sleep on the couch,” I say. “I've been told I talk in my sleep."

He nods. "We still have a couple of hours before dinner. Do you want to take a walk?"

"I'm kind of tired. I might try and get some sleep."

And hopefully sleep off the idiotic fantasy I had a moment ago that he wanted me.

"Okay. I need some air. I'll be back before six, so we can go to dinner together," he says and leaves the room.

As soon as the door shuts behind him, I sigh in relief. The thought of pretending for a whole week for Jenna-Lee is already exhausting.

After finishing the unpacking, I lie down on the bed, trying to get some sleep, but two questions keep playing in my mind. Will I ever get over him? Can anyone ever compare to him?

The question intensifies the heavy dread in my stomach, amplifying my anxiety as I envision the emotional wreckage this charade will leave behind.

Aaron

As I walk along the beach, I wonder what the hell is wrong with me. For some reason, I can't stop seeing Gabby differently today. The best I can do is hope it's some momentary madness that I'll get over quickly. I never want to complicate what we have with sex. Sleeping with her would blur the lines of our friendship, and I can't risk that.

"Aaron," a voice says, and I turn to see Jenna-Lee sitting on the sand in a black bikini by herself. If she hadn't said my name, I would have walked right by her.

"Where's August?" I ask her, dropping down beside her.

"Recovering. You'll be happy to know he doesn't have your stamina."

"That's too bad. For you." I smirk.

"Don't sound so pleased. Where's Gabby?"

"Sleeping."

"Shouldn't she be out enjoying a walk with you? You two usually don't leave each other's sight."

"We don't do everything together."

Jenna-Lee scoffs. "I'm surprised she let you out of the room."

"Why?"

"She's been in love with you for how many years?" Jenna-Lee says.

I can hardly dispute it now, after what I said earlier today, but Jenna-Lee doesn't know anything. She's always gone on about Gabby being in love with me, and how I've been blind to it. I've denied it every time. Sure, Gabby is in love with someone, but it isn't me. Jenna-Lee has been convinced though, and she's not the only girlfriend I've had who's thought the same. I would know if Gabby Striker was in love with me, wouldn't I?

"So?" I say to Jenna-Lee.

"So, you're sitting here on Heaven's Isle with your ex-girlfriend. I wonder what she would make of that.”

"I wonder what August would make of you sitting here with me.”

Suddenly, a dark shadow looms over us both, and I don’t have to wonder any longer because my nemesis is here in the flesh.

"I've been looking for you, Jenna-Lee."

"I've been enjoying the view here with Aaron.”

August gives me a dirty look. "Where's Gabby?"

"Back at the house.”

"That's too bad," August says, his smile unpleasant and his eyes cold. "Tell her to save a dance for me later."

"You can ask her yourself," I tell him, with equally cold eyes. "I know what she'll say."

Dinner and dancing on the first night on the island have been a tradition for as long as I've been coming to Heaven's Isle. I'll have to warn Gabby of August's intentions. I've already told her everything about August and our competition, but August will try to get his hands on her just to piss me off.

"You'll save a dance for me, won't you Aaron?" Jenna-Lee asks.

"Of course," I tell her.

August smirks. "I'm sure we can swap partners for at least one dance."

Damn it, this is going to be even trickier than I thought. If I pursue Jenna-Lee, then I'll leave Gabby vulnerable to August’s attentions.

“Jenna-Lee, let’s take a walk,” August says.

Jenna-Lee huffs out a breath, but stands up anyway. She turns to me and smiles seductively. “I’ll look forward to the dance you promised me.”

“What were you doing with him?” August growls, his voice carrying on the wind.

As August and Jenna-Lee walk away, I smirk, realizing their relationship isn't as strong as they want it to be. I know August will mess things up soon, and I'll be ready to take advantage of the situation. Not that I’m thinking of Jenna-Lee as a prize; I love her, I’m sure of it.

I walk back to the room, hoping Gabby is awake now. As I enter the room, I see that she's getting dressed.

“You’re back,” she says, smiling at me. “Zip me up.”

She turns around in the black cocktail dress she’s wearing, exposing the curve of her long, graceful neck and her back. Immediately, my hands twitch with the desire to touch her, to stroke my hands over her body, and trail kisses down her neck. Damn it, what is wrong with me? Shouldn’t I be thinking about Jenna-Lee?

"Did you sleep?" I ask her.

"I tried. I ended up reading a book instead." She turns around once the zip reaches the top. "Thanks. How was your walk?"

"I ran into Jenna-Lee," I say, trying not to admire the way the dress fits her like a second skin. "I think our plan is working."

"Oh?" She walks into the bathroom. "That's great."

"Well, it was a great plan," I call after her.

Gabby

I look at myself in the bathroom mirror and ask my reflection, "How could you be so stupid?"

If the plan works, and it seems like it is, what will happen when Jenna-Lee realizes she wants Aaron back? What will happen to me if they can't keep their hands off each other?

I know Aaron won't leave me high and dry, but I hadn't thought it through. Will I have to fake a break-up with him?

Then there's the fact that Jenna-Lee doesn't like me. She sees me as a threat, and coming along this week as Aaron's fake girlfriend isn't going to help my cause with her. Will she try to stop Aaron from spending time with me? Will I see less of my friend? Will he decide to marry her?

Things are changing, and they're changing too quickly. My friendship with Aaron has reached a turning point. He's fallen in love for the first time, and I've decided to start dating seriously and look for someone to share my life with. Our friendship has been a constant for so long, but now that it's shifting, I feel unsteady and uncertain about everything.

I finish freshening up my makeup and walk out of the bathroom. I look away when I see Aaron taking his tee-shirt off, not wanting to feel the pangs of desire that will remain unsated. I search for my purse in the wardrobe, and when I find it, I turn back around and see him buttoning up his shirt.

He looks at me, inclining his head and studying me intently for a moment. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine. Why?"

"I don't know. You look sad."

"Damn, I was hoping for nice."

His eyes soften a bit. "You look beautiful, Gab, but something's up."

He always sees through me so easily.

"Are you ready?" I ask him, needing to get out of here. There are tears pricking the backs of my eyes. If I start crying, he’ll want to know why, and I don’t know how to explain the grief I’m feeling.

He crosses his arms, showing off all those muscles of his. “You’re holding out on me again.”

I try to laugh off his assumption. “What are you talking about?”

“Something is wrong, but you won’t tell me. Just like you wouldn’t tell me about your mystery man.”

I scoff, but my heart clenches when I see hurt flash in his eyes. “I’m not trying to hold out on you, Aaron. I just…”

“You’re thinking about him again, aren’t you.”

“Who?”

“The guy you’re in love with.”

I force a smile. “You caught me.”

He studies me, concern clear in his features. “He’s got a hold on you.”

“I’m trying to break it.”

He holds out his arm, and when I reach for it, he takes my hand and places it on his arm, guiding us out the door. “Maybe you should tell me about him.”

I give him side-eye. “I thought you were going to help me forget about him.”

“I thought that was the right move. But maybe you can’t move past him until you confront it once and for all. I don’t want you to feel like you can’t tell me about him. I want to know. I care.”

“Aaron… I appreciate it, I do, but… I just want to forget him. Let’s try to have a nice night, okay.”

He looks reluctant to let it go, but eventually he does, and we walk out.

And I try to put my game face on.

Next episode