Chapter 163

I use the next few days to relax, spending my time reading or studying up on next year's assignments. Somehow, doing work on the beach makes it feel less like, well, work. The sun feels good, the sea sings a lulling melody, and I have constant company. As if they can sense how tentative this new situation is, the Idols don't stay long or say too much, not like they did the other day.

I haven't gotten straight answers out of anyone, but I'm enjoying my time with Lizzie, Miranda, Andrew, Zack, and Windsor too much to press. That is, until my last night at the Hamptons.

“I wish you could stay longer,” Miranda says with a sigh, “it's going to be downright boring here without you.”

I give her a smile, and accept her outstretched hug, but I want to be home to spend some time with my dad. He might be doing better, but he's still sick. Cancer is a relentless, awful nightmare. Even when you've beat it, it can slither back in the shadows. Spending time with Charlie is my num