Evie approaches Ryan at his house as he mows the lawn, and they sit in the backyard to talk privately. Ryan explains he suspected trouble in Glenview even before meeting Evie, then an associate warned him someone had infiltrated his operation. Evie confirms the Tennessee motel hallway contact was her boss, Mr. Smith, who told Ryan she was stealing from him.

Ryan recounts that Smith gave him “proof,” but the shipment dates, amounts, and buyer names were altered, which made him doubt the accusation—especially after finding Evie distraught in the shower. Evie admits she was a job, her boss played people against each other, and she changed Ryan’s shipment details to keep Smith from taking over his business and to sever Smith’s trust in her.

Evie then discloses her history: growing up in Eden, her mother’s death, working for Mr. Smith, not realizing he was also George until late, and the murders of the woman posing as Evie and of James. Ryan is remorseful about James. Comforted and honest with each other, Evie and Ryan let the conversation settle as the sun goes down.

Days later, their rhythm feels easy and candid. On a Thursday, Ryan leaves for East Texas while Evie works from a secure home office Devon set up. She calls Amy, who now uses the Porter surname, and logs into the King Harvest fan message board. New alerts arrive to their secure channel, and Amy urges Evie to open them, addressing her as “Miss Smith,” which Evie relishes.