After the school assembly, Perry drives Celeste home. Celeste notices that Perry seems pleased with himself after enjoying the role of an involved school father, watching Max and Josh perform in the crocodile costume, taking family photos, and socializing comfortably with Ed and the other parents before trivia night.

Celeste tries to reassure herself that Perry is in a good mood and that things should be fine, but Celeste remembers the quick flash of rage on Perry's face when Celeste jokingly said she would leave Perry if Perry signed the petition to have Ziggy suspended. Celeste worries that the comment embarrassed Perry in front of Madeline and Ed.

Celeste reflects on the secret apartment Celeste has rented and furnished as a possible escape. The apartment makes leaving Perry feel possible, but Celeste remains torn between feeling that leaving is necessary and feeling that preparing another home is a terrible betrayal. Celeste also feels fierce anger at the campaign against Ziggy, especially because Perry may owe Jane and Ziggy loyalty if Saxon Banks is truly Perry's cousin and Ziggy's father.

When Perry pulls into the driveway, Celeste thinks Perry will leave for work, but Perry says Perry needs to come inside. As soon as they enter the house, Celeste senses danger. Perry grabs Celeste by the hair and threatens to kill Celeste if Celeste ever embarrasses Perry again.

Celeste apologizes, but Perry decides the apology is not enough and deliberately slams Celeste's head against the wall. Celeste collapses, retches, and curls on the floor in pain. Perry then returns with an ice pack, speaks gently, and helps Celeste sit up.

Perry appears devastated and sobs, and Celeste leans against Perry. The chapter ends with Celeste and Perry rocking together on the floor, trapping Celeste again in the painful cycle of violence, remorse, and intimacy.