The gala was for charity. But every glance, every brush of skin? That was for war.

At the prestigious Children’s Hospital Gala, Prince arrives arm-in-arm with Taylor for the cameras. But his eyes? They’re tracking Gabrielle. She’s not there for him—she’s there on business, sleek in emerald and effortless in her restraint. Still, the tension between them buzzes through every champagne toast and donor smile.

Taylor’s suspicion sharpens. A single photo on Gabrielle’s profile—subtle, but damning—leads her to a new name, a new thread. Isabelle Pierce. It’s not proof. But it’s something.

Meanwhile, Gabrielle is done pretending. When Devon shows up late, again, she doesn’t flinch—but she doesn’t forgive either. Their relationship has become a performance, and she’s tired of playing. By night’s end, she walks away—for good. Not for Prince. Not for revenge. For herself.

Back in the locker room, Prince is already bracing for Boston—a city full of Taylor’s family, fake dinners, and cold weather. But the real issue? He needs Gabrielle. He needs her grounding. Her presence. Her mouth. He tries to message her carefully. Instead, he types what’s true:

“Come to Boston. I need you. I’ll handle the rest.”

Now all he can do is wait.