Mallory quickly packs her few belongings, says goodbye to Safe Harbor, and moves from Philadelphia to the Maxwells’ property in Spring Brook. Ted and Teddy greet her warmly at the train station, and Ted’s earlier suspicion is gone. That evening, a relaxed family dinner by the pool makes Mallory feel immediately included, while a joking discussion about Teddy’s recent behavior shows Caroline’s anxious, careful parenting and Ted’s more teasing approach.

Over the next day, the Maxwells make Mallory even more comfortable. Ted gives her an advance so she can buy a swimsuit, Caroline gives her expensive hand-me-down clothes, and Caroline also insists she carry a small stun gun after hearing about a nearby carjacking. Mallory is touched by the generosity and protectiveness, and the attention reinforces her sense that this job is a fresh start.

Mallory settles into an easy routine as Teddy’s nanny. Her days are filled with breakfast in the house, simple chores, outings, lunch, Quiet Time, swimming, evening runs, and quiet nights in the cottage. She comes to love Teddy’s sweetness, curiosity, and drawings, and she feels proud of her steady work, savings, and independence. At the same time, her new life feels so safe and orderly that she starts thinking she may not need recovery meetings anymore.

Mallory also grows closer to Ted, who often asks about her runs, her day with Teddy, and even her opinions on consumer brands related to his software business. Mallory enjoys being listened to and feels flattered by his interest. The only ongoing problem in her work is Teddy’s imaginary friend, Anya, whom Teddy uses to resist instructions about chores and food.

When Mallory asks the parents how to handle Anya, Caroline advises patience while Ted urges Mallory to tell Teddy flatly that Anya is not real. Mallory chooses a gentler middle ground and, over cookies and milk, questions Teddy about Anya. Teddy becomes uncomfortable and finally admits in a whisper that he knows Anya is not real and that Mallory does not need to prove it. Feeling guilty for pressing him, Mallory tries to soften the moment by describing her sister Beth’s own imaginary friend, then Teddy abruptly leaves for the bathroom. Left alone, Mallory notices Teddy’s newest drawing and picks it up to look at it.