We eloped. Just the two of us.
Fallon
That’s so romantic. You did it! You married the boy on your list. You got your dream!
I had. But until DayGlow was squarely in my rearview mirror, my reality was less like a dream and more like a terrifying nightmare.
Juliette
Are you and the girls okay?
Fallon
Yeah. I mean, Cecil’s still spitting mad that you disappeared. The whole board is. I’ve never seen so many broody men. But we’re okay. Just miss YOU.
Juliette
I miss you all too. Have they named a new Sunburst?
I crossed my fingers, praying it wasn’t her,Briar, or Riley.Honestly, I even hoped it wasn’t Nessa. It wasn’t a job I’d wish on my worst enemy.
On the other side of the church, I could hear Griffin and the group chatting, walking up and down the sidewalk. The van door opening and closing.
Fallon
No. They talked about it at first, but then they figured out that was an empty threat. No one can replace you. So they’re sucking it up, determined to wait it out and give you the space you need so you’ll be ready to pick up the reins when you return.
The relief that my friends were safe was quickly swallowed by the sickening truth settling in. DayGlow had no intention of letting me go. Ever.
Juliette
I’m not coming back, Fal.
It took her too long to reply.
Fallon
Ever?
Fallon
Julesy, you have to come back. You signed a contract.
Juliette
I can’t. I’m so sorry. I don’t care if they take all my money or sue me to high heaven. I’m done at DayGlow.
Fallon
But why? Who wouldn’t want to be the Sunburst?
I could feel her heartbreak and confusionall the way across the country.I’d lived her dream—the dream she couldn’t seem to land no matter what she did—and I didn’t want it.
Juliette
I’m burnt out, okay? That’s all. I’m going to do something different with my life.
Fallon
