Chapter 35

In the aftermath of Felix’s departure, Lucy numbly readies for bed, only to be flooded by memories of their time together on PEI and in Toronto. Thoughts of Bridget’s impending move and the image of Teacup Rock’s disappearance sharpen Lucy’s sense that things are slipping away, and she breaks down.

Exhausted the next day, Lucy reaches out to Bridget, who arrives with ice cream. Lucy recounts that she and Felix ended things, while Bridget relays Felix called it a “breather.” Lucy admits she needs space to stabilize her life, fearing she might otherwise run to PEI and become an emotional burden. She concedes timing at work is terrible and worries about repeating past neglect in relationships, but also acknowledges how deeply she cares for Felix.

Bridget reassures Lucy that Felix wasn’t ending it for good and encourages her to reach out when ready. Bridget adds that her mother, Christine, blasted Felix over the idea of a breather, which comforts Lucy. After Bridget leaves, Lucy considers her dependence on Bridget’s help with the shop and recognizes she must be her own safety net. She craves time and quiet to ask herself bigger questions, but for now surrenders to rest.

The following day at the shop, Farah checks in, noting operations went smoothly. Seeing Lucy’s distress, Farah invites honesty. Lucy admits she isn’t okay and, deciding she’s done with secrecy, tells Farah the entire story from the first summer to now, choosing openness as a step toward her needed reset.