Chapter 27

Fern travels to Will’s Summerhill home despite intending to stay away. Shocked by Will’s exhausted state, she admits she missed him and presents the dock sketch, confirming he had been at the lake nine years earlier. Inside, she presses for the truth; Will apologizes for leaving, then confesses he’s in love but afraid.

Fern urges Will to choose his own life and asks if he wants her in it. Will admits he avoided Fern years ago out of shame over abandoning art and fear of not returning to his responsibilities. They agree to pause heavy discussion for rest; Fern comforts him as he sleeps.

In the morning, Fern makes coffee and pancakes, then gives Will a five-part plan: apologize; be honest; let her help; wear an apron; draw her a picture. Will delivers a thorough apology and begins full honesty, revealing he offered to help Margaret with the resort and that he takes medication for anxiety, describing past spirals after his mother left and when Sofia was born.

Fern sets boundaries: no more secrets or compartmentalizing; she wants to be part of Will’s reality, including family obligations. Will explains recent conflicts with Annabel about moving out and his desire to keep them close. Fern reassures him she’s not “most women,” declares her love, and asks him to keep making art, even as a hobby.

They reaffirm mutual love and commitment. When Sofia asks for pancakes, Will prepares to introduce her to Fern. Fern confirms she wants “everything,” embracing Will’s messy, real life and their future together with honesty and support.