Chapter 67

For five consecutive days, Autumn and Finny follow a healing routine: late breakfasts out, quiet afternoons on Finny’s bed with Autumn reading while Finny games, family dinners with The Mothers, and nightly movies. Afterward, Autumn retreats upstairs and watches Finny through their windows as he takes an 11 p.m. call—likely Sylvie—then reads and sleeps.

Autumn uses watching Finny as a distraction from thoughts of Jamie and self-harm, anchoring herself in the present. She notes his small gestures and finds safety in the ritual.

On the sixth morning, Finny arrives nervous. He explains that Jack called and their friends want to get together, asking if Autumn will be okay alone. Autumn reassures him, says she’s feeling better, and encourages him to go. They share a normal breakfast conversation before he drops her home.

Alone in the quiet house, Autumn naps, then turns to her neglected writing. She reshapes an old piece with a new, honest vision, losing herself in the work. After pizza with Mom and Aunt Angelina, she returns to writing into the evening.

When Finny gets home late, Autumn turns off her lights and watches him. He unexpectedly calls her; they talk while looking at each other across their windows, reminiscing about their childhood “cups and string.” They confirm they can see each other, wave, and exchange soft greetings, signaling a renewed, intimate closeness.