Alice wakes on Charlie Florek’s chest after the post-accident night, recalling him checking on her repeatedly. Their playful morning banter is cut short when Alice remembers Charlie’s remark from the car—"We wouldn’t be good together"—which stings. She pulls away, saying she needs alone time. Charlie, assuming she is angry about the accident, presses gently, but Alice insists she is just tired and asks him to leave, then watches him go.

Later that morning, Heather arrives with Bennett, fusses over Alice’s condition, and suggests Charlie is in love with Alice. Alice denies it and shuts down the topic. After lunch, Heather and Bennett depart, and Nan offers quiet support as Alice retreats to sleep through a gloomy afternoon.

By suppertime, Charlie texts to offer homemade pierogi for dinner and checks on Alice’s head; Alice declines, saying she needs a night off. He replies with an apology. Alice shares a simple comfort-meal with Nan, who describes an honest talk with John Kalinski: they apologized to each other for the kiss years ago and agreed it was grief-driven, which leaves Nan visibly lighter and more herself.

As they talk, Nan reflects on aging, gratitude for memories, and Alice’s happiness over the summer. Alice breaks down and admits she has feelings for Charlie but wants to fight them to preserve the friendship. Nan counsels that Alice feels deeply and should accept what she wants despite the risk of hurt, adding that she regrets running away from John instead of talking through their past. Nan names Alice’s fear directly: falling in love is terrifying.

Over the next three days, Alice avoids Charlie: she cites work, sends curt replies, declines invitations, ignores his offer to take her for stitch removal, and hides in the boathouse when he visits Nan. Nan teases that Alice is torturing Charlie and notes his unshaven, worn appearance, urging Alice to face the truth. Alice finally confesses to Nan, "I like him," but still delays.

The following morning, Charlie appears in the cottage doorway, bearded and stern. He coordinates silently with Nan—who hands him a tote bag—and fixes on Alice with a firm command: "You’re coming with me."