After spending another forty minutes with Nathaniel Bennett in the darkroom, Addie lets him drive her home because she cannot risk being late for her mother. During the ride, Addie relives their kissing and feels reassured that Nathaniel did not push for more, taking that restraint as proof that his feelings are sincere.

At a stoplight, Nathaniel takes Addie’s hand and admits that the situation makes him feel like a bad person because he is her teacher. Addie reminds Nathaniel that she initiated their first kiss, and Nathaniel responds by saying he married Eve out of expectation, never met anyone truly special before, and now believes Addie is his soulmate despite her being sixteen.

Nathaniel tells Addie that other people would not understand their connection and that exposure would ruin both of them, especially his job. He also says Addie has changed his life by inspiring him to write poetry again, contrasting Addie’s enthusiasm with Eve’s supposed lack of interest in his creative side. This deepens Addie’s resentment toward Eve and strengthens Addie’s belief that Nathaniel belongs with her instead.

When Nathaniel stops a block from Addie’s house to avoid suspicion, he again warns her that she must tell no one about their relationship. He emphasizes that his entire career is in her hands, and Addie promises he can trust her. Although they avoid kissing in the car because of the risk, Addie leaves believing their secrecy is temporary and imagining a future when they might openly be together.