Contents
Chapter 15
Overview
Unable to sleep after their argument, Fern apologizes to Will and admits she wants him—and likely to stay at the resort. They reconcile physically and emotionally, deepening their connection. Morning reveals Will’s tattoos and that Sofia is his niece. Will calls his time here a “break from reality,” planting doubt even as they plan to meet again.
Summary
Restless after their blowup, Fern goes to Will’s cabin in the middle of the night to apologize. She admits she was cruel, appreciates his help, and confesses she knows what she wants. When pressed, Fern says she wants Will. The confession breaks the tension; they kiss and take each other inside, where desire overcomes hesitation.
As they slow down, Will checks in and they agree to continue. They have sex, tender and intense, with Will asking to look at Fern the first time. The emotional charge surprises Fern, and they fall asleep holding each other.
Before dawn, Fern wakes, studies Will’s tattoos, and debates leaving quietly. Will wakes, draws her close, and invites her to stay. She notices the name “Sofia,” momentarily jealous, but Will explains Sofia is his niece. He admits this stretch has felt like “a total break from reality,” even as sketching has resurfaced a creative side he had set aside.
Fern asks about his “Only thoughts” tattoo; Will deflects. They drift back to intimacy. Later, over coffee, Fern tries to keep things professional, but Will focuses on what happened between them. Though Fern worries about being just part of his escape, she agrees to see him again and tells him to come over after his afternoon pitch.
Who Appears
- Fern BrookbanksProtagonist; apologizes for lashing out, admits wanting Will and likely staying; initiates and shares intimacy; conflicted by his “break from reality.”
- Will BaxterConsultant; reconciles with Fern and sleeps with her; reveals tattoos, that Sofia is his niece, and calls his time here a break from reality.