Krista describes often waiting up for Blake with freshly baked cookies because his happiness at seeing her makes her feel loved. She reflects on her past with Jordan, her high school boyfriend whom she loved and once thought she would marry. After learning Jordan cheated, she says it destroyed her and led her to ensure she could be happy only if he no longer existed, concluding, "So I fixed it," confirming she killed him.

Krista then recounts how she targeted Blake when he first came into the dry cleaner, giving him fake discounts until he asked her out. When he hesitated, she staked out his listed address and discovered he had a blond, smoking girlfriend and was seeing another woman. Krista paid a waitress to tell the girlfriend that Blake had been there with another girl, which precipitated a breakup; soon after, Blake asked Krista out. She rationalizes that the other woman would not have made him happy.

Krista and Blake have since moved into a three-bedroom brownstone and discussed a future together, including a nursery and getting a fish as parenting practice. She tries to be the partner he wants and supports his work ambitions and promotion.

Late that night, Blake arrives home close to 1 a.m., disheveled with a loose tie. Instead of his usual delighted smile, he looks surprised to see her awake. He declines her cookies, citing weight concerns, which is unusual for him. He gives her only a brief peck instead of their typical passionate kiss.

Krista notices Blake’s shirt is misbuttoned, suggesting he had unbuttoned it earlier, and she smells perfume. She tries to initiate sex, but Blake refuses, saying he is exhausted from the Henderson campaign and offering a rain check. He then hugs her and professes his love and eagerness to marry her.

The chapter closes with Krista reaffirming her love for Blake but confessing she does not trust him, given the signs that he may be unfaithful.