Ava and her best friend Jules head to Josh's house early in the morning to help him finish packing before his flight. Jules, who mutually dislikes Josh despite their similar personalities, has been bribed with the promise of a caramel mocha. Ava reflects on Jules's striking appearance and confident personality, comparing it to Josh's equally large ego and good looks. She suspects their animosity stems from seeing too much of themselves in each other.

The house is mostly empty, and the trio spends about an hour and a half packing remaining items and loading them into a rented SUV. When Ava asks about a large abstract painting left behind, Josh cryptically says "he likes it" and refuses to explain who is taking over the house. Moments later, an Aston Martin pulls into the driveway and Alex Volkov steps out. Ava is stunned and immediately realizes that Josh has arranged for Alex to move into the house next door to keep watch over her.

Josh confirms that Alex is her new neighbor, framing it as Alex "looking after the house" until Josh returns next year. Ava protests that she doesn't need a babysitter at twenty-two, but Josh argues it's practical, especially given the situation with her ex-boyfriend Liam, who has been blowing up her phone and showing up at her workplace since she caught him cheating. Ava insists she can handle herself and views Liam as more embarrassing than dangerous.

Jules enthusiastically supports Alex moving in, jokingly suggesting he mow the lawn shirtless, which provokes a fresh argument between Jules and Josh about who has authority over Ava's life. After breaking up their bickering, Ava recognizes the stubborn look on Josh's face and realizes she can't change his mind. Alex, who has been largely ignoring the conversation while scrolling his phone, coldly tells Ava not to do anything stupid and they'll be fine. Ava resigns herself to the arrangement, dreading the year ahead.