Samantha arrived at Xavier’s apartment after he showed her around his veterinary clinic, introducing her to coworkers Tina and Maggie and proudly sharing his space and accomplishments. Noting Xavier’s uncharacteristic constant grin at work, Samantha reflected on his drive and independence and felt proud, acknowledging why he would not leave his life and practice.

At Xavier’s apartment, Samantha observed his neat space and entered his bedroom for the first time. Their reunion quickly turned intimate; they took their time kissing, and Xavier focused on foreplay before they had sex. They affirmed their relationship verbally—Samantha called Xavier her boyfriend, which made him visibly happy—and Samantha reveled in the closeness that distance usually denied them.

Afterward, they lay together in bed and discussed plans. Xavier invited Samantha to a cabin trip from December 28 to January 2. Samantha agreed, insisted on buying her own ticket, and asked that they “bed rot,” emphasizing rest and togetherness during the visit. They shared light, domestic moments as Xavier offered to iron Samantha’s work clothes and changed into sweatpants.

While getting water, Samantha noticed Xavier had stocked Murkle’s mustard—the brand she preferred—implying he had swapped out French’s for her sake. The gesture deeply moved Samantha, who recognized it as a quiet act of loyalty and a sign of how he cared for her. She watched Xavier ironing her shirt and felt certain he was the partner she wanted.

The chapter closed with Samantha holding two truths at once: she envisioned a future of everyday moments like this with Xavier, but accepted that most of their days would still be spent apart, underscoring the ongoing strain of long distance.