On Wednesday, July 24th, Daphne reflects on a streak of good fortune leading up to the Read-a-thon: Miles surprised her and Julia with a trip to a North Bear Shores bookstore event that yielded a donation, authors agreed to contribute videos and a live call, the Fortnite tournament had record turnout, and shy library regular Maya finally agreed to attend YA book club. She shares the news with her mom by phone, who recalls Daphne's shy-but-brave childhood. The call is interrupted by an unusual incoming call from her semi-estranged father, who texts that he has "fun news," sparking Daphne's anxiety given his erratic patterns.

Walking home, Daphne pauses at the taffy-green cottage she's been dreaming about, notes its price drop, and lets herself imagine building a real life in Waning Bay. That night at poker, she learns Ashleigh's forty-third birthday is coming up and that Ashleigh dreads it because she feels stagnant. Daphne insists they celebrate, eventually proposing to come over and help Ashleigh paint a wall in her house, something her ex-husband Duke never allowed. Ashleigh agrees, teasing her into the plan. Daphne wins the poker game.

Sunday's mystery outing with Miles is rained out, and he asks Daphne to take Thursday off instead. She eases into her day at Fika, trying matcha, then ordering drinks for her roommates; barista Jonah greets her by name and comps her order, making her feel like a true local regular.

Walking home, Daphne's father calls again. He texts only to confirm her address, which she assumes means another unwanted package of vitamins, oils, or random nostalgic junk. She tries to call him back to dissuade him, but he doesn't answer. As she struggles with the lock, the apartment door is opened from inside by an unfamiliar middle-aged woman with a beehive who greets her by name. Daphne's father then steps out of the kitchen, puts an arm around the woman, and announces, "Surprise!"