The chapter opened with an old note Dusty had written to Cam in the past, revealing Dusty’s nervous affection and an invitation to make rides home from soccer a habit and to meet Dusty’s family for dinner. This set the tone for Dusty’s longstanding feelings for Cam.

In the present, Dusty arrived at the Meadowlark Assisted Living Facility carrying baby’s breath flowers and groceries—tapioca pudding and canned peaches—for Anne, the owner of the house Dusty maintains. Dusty found Anne in the sunroom with her e-reader and greeted her warmly. Anne joked about recognizing Dusty by the sound of rings and buckles and accepted the gifts, appreciating the fresh flowers.

They chatted about life at the facility. Anne shared lighthearted gossip about residents and staff and admitted she liked living there more than expected, enjoying the constant company and activities despite sometimes missing her home. She mentioned a recent visit from service dogs and a failed attempt at painting one.

When Anne asked about the house, Dusty reported that the HVAC system would likely need replacement before next winter due to intermittent heating issues. Anne said she would have Ed Wyatt inform Cam, noting that Cam was viewing the house that day. Dusty tried to mask his surprise and nerves about Cam potentially moving onto the property where Dusty lives in the tenant house.

Anne asked whether Cam knew Dusty lived on-site and expressed sympathy for what had happened to Cam, calling her a “good egg.” Dusty admitted he and Cam were only “kind of” still friends after losing touch while Dusty was away, though they had seen each other a few times since Dusty returned. Dusty internally acknowledged a persistent hope about Cam that he struggled to extinguish.

Anne mentioned that Dusty’s mother had visited her recently, implying they discussed Dusty. As they spoke, Anne received a text from Ed Wyatt and concluded that Dusty was about to get a new neighbor, confirming Cam’s likely tenancy. Dusty braced himself for the impending change.