In the garden’s shade, Iris settles Roman into a chair and confesses she had let pride and fear keep her from speaking openly when she first confronted him in the infirmary. She reflects on the fragility of life at the front and her resolve not to waste time, then produces a bloodstained letter that once revealed Roman’s secret.

Iris explains that she loved “Carver” for his sustaining words and had grown to like Roman in person, and she now wants to merge the two identities. She asks Roman to read the letter aloud so she can hear Carver’s words in Roman’s voice. After some playful stalling, Roman begins to read, recalling his confession and encouragement from the trenches. His voice falters as he reaches the declaration of love, and Iris moves close, urging him on until he says, “I love you, Iris.”

The moment turns physical as Iris straddles Roman’s lap; they kiss and explore each other with growing desire. Roman then asks the question he has been building to and formally proposes: “Marry me, Iris Elizabeth Winnow.” Iris, feeling safe and certain, accepts immediately, answering that she will marry Roman Carver Kitt.

They decide to marry that afternoon, citing the uncertainty of war. They candidly discuss intimacy; Iris admits she is a virgin, and Roman says he is as well, agreeing they can wait if needed, but Iris says she wants to experience it with him. They also note they should seek permission or approval from Marisol and Attie.

A strong western wind gusts through the garden, making the chimes sing and giving Iris an uneasy feeling, as if they are being watched. She brushes it off as stress over everything happening and her pending article, and Roman teases her work ethic.

Inspired by their shared dedication, Roman proposes they open the twin wardrobe doors, bring their typewriters to the kitchen, and work together at the table in the warm air while waiting for Marisol and Attie to return. Iris agrees, ending the scene with their plan to write side by side.