Samantha and Xavier return to Samantha’s apartment so she can clean up after the car incident and feed her cat, Pooter. They pick up Jeneva’s sons and take them to the zoo, where the boys are thrilled to learn Xavier is a veterinarian. Samantha notices Xavier’s attentive, prepared nature—his “Airport Dad” energy—and realizes how naturally he cares for others.

Throughout the day, Samantha reflects on why she is drawn to Xavier, connecting his steadiness to her father’s similar reliability. She recognizes how well they complement each other: Samantha brings fun and spontaneity, while Xavier provides calm and security. After returning the boys and checking on Pooter, Samantha and Xavier have a long, animated dinner and then head back to the hotel late at night, tired and sunburned but content.

As they lie together in the hotel room, Samantha imagines the relationship they might have had if she had stayed in Minnesota—shared holidays, routines, and a deeper life together. She also acknowledges that her mother Lisa’s condition anchors her in California and that she will not move away again. The thought of leaving her mother when Lisa cannot witness Samantha’s life convinces Samantha that she must be present for Lisa now.

When Xavier asks when he can visit again, Samantha initiates a difficult conversation. She tells Xavier the distance makes a relationship unrealistic without an end date. They discuss his clinic in Minnesota, which he cannot sell for years, and Samantha’s commitment to remain in California for her mother, possibly for a decade or more. Samantha concludes that starting something that can only end painfully would hurt them both in the long run.

Despite mutual feelings, Samantha asks Xavier not to call or text and to find someone local to share his life with. Xavier does not argue further, accepting the hard truth. A few hours later, Samantha drives Xavier to the airport at 4:30 a.m., kisses him goodbye, and lets him go.