Jet had developed a serious interest in photography, carrying her camera everywhere and capturing everyday scenes with striking perspective. Lillian decided to tell Ryan and, with Jet’s consent, took a selection of Jet’s photographs to Ryan’s Sundance Gallery during her lunch break. Entering the gallery triggered potent memories of their marriage, even as she observed how Ryan had sustained a successful business.

Inside, Lillian noticed a small painting by Ryan depicting Jet laughing in sun-dappled grass, which deeply impressed her. Ryan examined Jet’s photos under a lamp, grew emotional, and asked to display some, suggesting they could sell for hundreds of dollars. He took Jet’s new cell number, and their closeness in the office revived Lillian’s guarded hope.

Ryan then invited Lillian and Jet to dinner that night at his new, clean, eucalyptus-scented apartment near Lockheed. The three shared a simple meal, with light conversation about The Beatles, boy bands, and Titanic, during which Ryan and Jet bantered comfortably. Lillian quietly checked for alcohol and found no obvious signs. Ryan praised Jet’s photos and proposed that she come by the gallery after school to choose which to sell, giving her the address.

At the door, Ryan asked Lillian privately to come back for dinner alone on Friday to talk, and she agreed. Lillian noted his older appearance, including new eyeglasses for farsightedness, and felt a mix of nostalgia and apprehension about this renewed closeness.

Back home, after routine chores and Jet’s homework, Jet asked what Ryan thought of her and why he left. Lillian explained that Ryan’s drinking could become aggressive and that he left to avoid hurting them, affirming that he loved Jet despite the damage. Jet declared she would never drink, and Lillian shared that Ryan had once sworn the same. Lillian told Jet about the upcoming Friday dinner, and Jet planned to spend the evening with Kendi, while Lillian reflected on her mother, on family patterns, and, briefly, on the prospect of someday becoming a grandmother.