Jerry was tempted, but he wasn’t quite tempted enough. That was the real reason he had set her the challenge. Like everything that really interested Jerry Mulcahey, the challenge was subtle and difficult and for big stakes. The rest of the Troupe might construe it as a punishment, but Jane knew better: it was a very personal trial, make or break. Jerry wanted her to make him a solemn promise and break it. So that he’d have the excuse he needed to politely usher her out of his life. And so she’d have no excuse not to go.