17: The Dance

January invites Gus to the Black Cat Saloon for line dancing, teasing him about cowboy hats. In the packed bar, they cling together through the beginner lesson, sharing laughter and flirtation that stirs January’s conflicted feelings about his distance and secrecy.

At the bar, Gus toasts “to your happy endings,” which January takes as a slight against her worldview. Fueled by whiskey and frustration, she returns to the floor but ultimately bolts outside, overwhelmed by jealousy, fear, and his emotional guardedness.

In the parking lot, Gus presses for honesty. January accuses him of withholding respect and key truths—specifically his marriage. Cornered but candid, Gus reveals he was married two years and his wife left him for his best man and college roommate, Parker. He adds that he once couldn’t stop his father from breaking his arm, underscoring his belief that love can’t be forced.

January’s anger dissolves into empathy; she hugs Gus and apologizes, saying his wife should have chosen him. Gus admits he never thought she was naive and calls belief in lasting love brave. He confesses that not believing doesn’t stop him from wanting it, warning that desire is dangerous if unchecked.

They decide to get coffee inside to sober up before driving, their closeness tentatively restored. The next morning, January wakes to a simple text from Gus: “Ow,” signaling matching hangovers and a softened rapport.