On August 21, Alice examines a photograph she took of Charlie during their pickle-making day with Nan and recognizes a look of unmistakable adoration on Charlie’s face. She texts Charlie to come over, and when he arrives, she shows him the image in the darkroom, explaining that they “met over the cucumbers,” signaling her recognition of their connection.

Alice tells Charlie that this has been the best summer of her life and that she wants to show him how much he means to her. Their conversation quickly becomes physical as they kiss and undress in the red glow of the darkroom light, each affirming consent and readiness, including a brief confirmation about birth control.

They have sex in the darkroom with urgency and tenderness, with Charlie checking in on Alice and both expressing strong desire. They agree to continue later in a bed that night, further cementing their intimacy and mutual trust. The encounter leaves Alice exhilarated and emotionally fulfilled.

Hours afterward, Alice cannot stop smiling as she drinks tea with Nan on the deck. Nan teasingly guesses the reason for Alice’s glow, and Alice receives celebratory texts from Heather, to whom she has already confided that the sex was exceptional.

Alice asks Nan if she can spend the night at Charlie’s; Nan readily approves. When Charlie appears on his family’s dock, they exchange waves, and Nan reminds Alice of her earlier refrain that good things happen at the lake, underscoring the chapter’s hopeful tone.