Chapter 16

Laurel meets Floyd for a relaxed second date at a local Eritrean restaurant. The easy atmosphere heightens Laurel’s attraction, and mutual flirtation turns into a tactile connection that signals a shift from tentative dating to desire and trust.

After dinner, they go to Floyd’s Victorian house, where Laurel recognizes the familiar layout from her old home. They briefly encounter Floyd’s elder daughter, Sara-Jade, whose wary politeness and swift exit underline the delicacy of introducing Laurel into the household.

In the kitchen, Floyd reveals he googled Laurel and knows about Ellie’s disappearance. The admission creates momentary tension, but Floyd’s empathy and Laurel’s relief at not having to conceal her past lead her to say she is ready to talk. This candor strengthens their bond and reframes the date as a step toward emotional intimacy.

Later, with the house quiet and Sara-Jade gone, Laurel and Floyd go upstairs. Their physical relationship begins, defying Laurel’s belief that sex was behind her, and they fall asleep together as dawn approaches, confirming a decisive turn in their relationship.