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“It’s all good,” Jackson said. “This is my pet project. Phones don’t get service down here, obviously, so these are the next best thing. You can call anyone by using their name and a call command, or message them the same way.”

With a grimace, I slid the thin silver band over my wrist.

“Room six thirty-two for you, Dr. Meadows, and six thirty-three for Drs. Forbes and Meadows.”

Great, so my father and Alyssa would be boinking right across the hall. Were we having fun yet?

“Listen, this is great, but I’m in need of a nap,” I lied. What I really needed was some alone time.

“Of course. Want to meet for dinner?” Dad asked with a hand on my shoulder.

“No thanks. I’ll order room service or something. Maybe tomorrow. Or the next day.” Maybe if I could stomach being around Alyssa.

“Friday is the get-to-know-you gala,” Alyssa said. “Make sure you wear your formal attire. It’s going to be so much fun. I never get to dress up.”

“Formal attire?” I repeated, glancing at Jackson for help.

“Didn’t you read the brochure I gave you?” Dad asked with a laugh. He probably figured I threw it out immediately. He knew me well. “You should have packed a formal outfit along with several appropriate for tropical climates, swimsuits, and workout clothes.”

“Of course. See you soon then.” I feigned a yawn and waved my bracelet in front of the entrance to my room. The shiny metal door, inlaid with holographic mermaids, slid open, and I disappeared inside, wishing I could magically reappear on the surface where I belonged.