Lila, encouraged by Eleanor’s imagined advice, texts Gabriel on Thursday morning to confirm plans. He proposes an early drink near his work due to commitments with his daughter Lennie. Lila spends the day preparing, arrives early, and meets Gabriel at a busy Clerkenwell bar where he arrives apologetically late.

They ease into conversation about school runs, parenting, and the judgmental school-gate atmosphere. Gabriel admits feeling conspicuous as a single father; Lila vents about being judged, especially since Dan left for Marja. Their rapport deepens, and physical tension builds as Gabriel’s knee touches Lila’s under the table.

Gabriel asks if Lila is over Dan, and they establish they are both currently focused on their children. Lila probes gently about his past; Gabriel shares that he and his wife had separated before her death, calling the situation complicated. He describes his late wife as vibrant but insecure and asks Lila to keep details private, which she agrees to.

A phone call interrupts; Gabriel steps outside, looks upset, and returns to say he must leave without explanation. He walks Lila to the tube, where he turns earnest, telling Lila she is special and that he feels able to talk to her. He lifts her hand and kisses her palm, an intimate gesture that leaves Lila shaken and exhilarated.

On her way home, Anoushka calls with major news: publishers love Lila’s submitted chapter and are preparing an offer, potentially a six-figure pre-empt. Lila feels a surge of hope.

Later, after the girls are in their rooms, Lila watches La Familia Esperanza and is reminded of Gabriel’s palm-kiss by a similar scene. She texts Gabriel saying she loved seeing him and suggests meeting again. After a tense pause, Gabriel replies warmly, calling her “Bellissima” and confirming they will see each other soon.