"Noelle, Lucas was a jerk. I'll help you get even, but don't let him push you away from us all."

Noelle laughed. "The whole family always sides with Xenia, anyway. It doesn't matter."

She hailed a cab, but a familiar car pulled up. Cedric leaned out. "Get in."

She slid into the passenger seat. Frank appeared. "Noelle, can we talk later?"

"Maybe," she murmured, as Cedric sped off.

Frank, defeated, turned to Michael. "Noelle's not signing with your team. Give it up."

Michael arched an eyebrow. "Such bias! Never seen anything like it." His gaze followed the car; Cedric was driving. He finally understood Noelle's incredible fighting skills, but her ride was a mystery.

"Why are you here?" Noelle asked Cedric.

"Just passing by," he mumbled, gripping the wheel. "Have a good time at the event?"

"Great," she said, feeling better already. Cedric knew about the party. He'd expected her to be upset, but she was stronger than he thought.

Donovan’s message buzzed. Ignoring it, Noelle said, "Let's get barbecue."

"Where?"

"Behind the school. It’s amazing! I used to sneak there. Felt like a thief, worried the smell would cling to my clothes."

"Why sneak?" Cedric asked.

"My brother forbids junk food. Says it's unhealthy..." Her voice trailed off.

Cedric sensed her shift in mood. "Sure you won't regret leaving the Liddells?"

"Nope." Her gaze dropped. "They're fine with small things, but anything important—school, anything to do with Xenia—I always compromise."

She didn't need their favors, and she wasn't letting them guilt her. Cedric smiled; his worries were unfounded.

They pulled up behind the school. Cedric frowned at the mess but followed her inside. Noelle ordered everything she wanted. "Two beers, please."

The owner looked at Cedric. "Does your boyfriend want anything?"

Noelle froze.