Asher Glissen finds Theo at the Chalice in the morning and, after greeting him, hands Theo an envelope containing a specially painted Thanksgiving invitation that Brooke insisted on making.

Asher invites Theo to Thanksgiving dinner at the Glissens’ home, warning him to arrive hungry because Brooke takes the holiday seriously. Asher also notes that Simone, Basil, Basil’s girlfriend, and additional relatives—Pearce, Minnette, and Minnette’s husband Derrick—will be there.

Theo reflects on his years in New York and the many ways he has observed Thanksgiving: with coworkers and neighbors, volunteering at soup kitchens, and sometimes alone. He remembers once attending the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade early in his New York life, when the crowds and children’s excitement made him think of Tita.

With no plans for the holiday and feeling honored to be included, Theo accepts immediately. He looks forward to spending Thanksgiving in a home with friends and is especially curious to finally see the inside of the Glissen residence, imagining the atmosphere and history within its rooms.

By the time Thanksgiving arrives, Broadway’s trees have fully turned, and the ground is covered in copper, ochre, and red leaves—setting the scene for Theo’s upcoming visit.