On August 20, Charlie drives Alice to Madawaska Valley District High School without explaining why, teasing that it is a surprise. Inside, janitor Tony greets them and lets them into the building, joking about Charlie’s past troublemaking. Charlie leads Alice to the art room and reveals a functioning darkroom he has secured for her use through Olive, the art teacher, whose family knows his mother. He presents Alice with her box of summer film and offers ongoing access in exchange for buying classroom supplies, framing it as his apology for putting Alice, Nan, and Bennett in danger during the recent near-accident.

Deeply moved, Alice enters the darkroom and methodically processes black-and-white film, describing the calming ritual of mixing chemicals, loading reels, and timing each step. She develops multiple rolls and hangs three strips of negatives to dry, feeling a private, creative fulfillment that is separate from external expectations.

When Alice exits the school, Charlie is waiting by the car, and their exchanged smiles reflect their renewed connection. During the drive, Charlie offers her the key to return, and he relays Olive’s request that Alice come back during the school year to speak to students. Alice says she will consider it and invites Charlie to join as a road trip; Charlie replies he would like to, if he can make it work.

They imagine winter at the lake—skating and hot chocolate—and Alice pictures being there with Charlie and with Sam, Percy, and their soon-to-arrive baby. Back at Bare Rock Lane, Alice invites Charlie to stay for lunch and a boat ride, and they plan to take the Jet Ski and jump off the rock. Alice knows she needs to tell Charlie she has feelings for him but chooses to savor the moment a little longer.

The next day, Alice returns to the darkroom and develops a print. Confronted with the finished photograph, she realizes her time is up and recognizes it as the second photograph that will change her life, signaling an impending decision or shift she can no longer postpone.