Dusty arrives at the Ryders’ Big House for Christmas, noting the presence of Gus, Wes, Luke, his mother Aggie, and others, but not seeing Cam’s SUV and trying to ignore his disappointment. Inside, he finds a cozy, bustling gathering where Teddy has orchestrated matching cream fisherman sweaters for several of the men, including Dusty, to everyone’s amusement. Riley and Teddy work a large Rebel Blue puzzle on the floor, and Dusty joins them.

Cam enters asking about soap, and Dusty is galvanized by her presence. At Riley’s urging, Cam takes the spot beside Dusty to work on the puzzle. Conversation is easy but tentative. Hours later at dinner, seating places Cam and Dusty side by side. Their small talk turns meaningful when Dusty mentions trails behind Anne Wilson’s house, evoking shared memories; Cam mentions Riley wants to see the "rock couch." Dusty clumsily drops mashed potatoes, which breaks their awkwardness into familiar comfort.

As the meal continues, Dusty jokes with Cam about the sweater scheme and compliments her; Cam returns the compliment, subtly acknowledging she knew he would be there. Amos rises to give a heartfelt toast about chosen family and the long-filled table he and his late wife Stella once thought too big. Cam and Dusty share a lingering glance as they clink glasses.

After dinner, Dusty seeks Cam in a quiet windowed alcove. He presents a canvas bag containing a leather shoulder bag, laptop sleeve, and padfolio he hand-made and monogrammed for her, with a wooden pen crafted by Aggie. Cam is moved and praises the quality and thoughtfulness, teasing about college-ruled paper and the point-five pen tip. They share a careful but warm hug, exchanging soft observations that each feels “different” now, in a good way.

Riley interrupts, eager to give Dusty a gift. She presents a blue friendship bracelet, which Cam helps tie on Dusty’s wrist, an intimate touch Dusty keenly feels. Dusty gives Riley a small carved leather bracelet with a ruby closure, their shared birthstone. Cam calls it beautiful, looking at Dusty with open appreciation, signaling deepening trust and affection.

Throughout, Dusty reflects on his past restlessness, the hollowness of constant motion, and his choice to return home after Gus’s call. With Cam near—if only physically—he finds that the urge to move on has faded, and the gentle constancy of their renewed closeness, alongside Riley’s bond with him, begins to fill the emptiness.