Frankie and George finally reach Tofino after a long drive through the Pacific Rim rainforest. Frankie is awed by the towering trees, the smell of the ocean, and the wild coastal landscape, and the arrival makes her feel more alive than she has in months. Standing beneath a massive Sitka spruce, Frankie is struck by the fact that the trip she once assumed would never happen with George is now real.

Inside Moss & Stone Resort, Frankie is equally overwhelmed by the luxurious, nature-infused lobby and the dramatic beach view. When Kevin, the head of guest experiences, welcomes them as newlyweds, George unexpectedly plays along instead of correcting him. He puts a hand on Frankie’s back, claims them as a married couple, and pointedly replaces Nate’s surname with Frankie’s, calling them Mr. and Mrs. Gardiner. When Kevin explains that Nate’s card is on file, George insists on using his own card instead, revealing both protectiveness and a desire to separate this trip from Nate.

Kevin escorts them to their villa and enthusiastically describes the resort’s amenities and local activities. Frankie, tired and wine-softened, mostly tunes out, but she reacts sharply when Kevin suggests whale-watching. George smoothly explains that Frankie dislikes marine life, and Frankie’s discomfort hints at deeper feelings connected to her mother and even her own name. The awkward exchange shows how old emotional wounds still shape her reactions, even in a beautiful new setting.

The villa itself exceeds Frankie’s expectations, with sweeping views, a luxurious kitchen, a private deck, and a hot tub. Kevin continues to treat them like honeymooners, stocking the suite with wine, food, and romantic extras, which makes the false-couple dynamic more charged. Frankie notices George’s appeal with fresh intensity, from his body to his quiet competence, and the flirtation becomes harder to ignore. By the time Kevin leads them upstairs, Frankie is stunned by what she sees, and George mutters, “God help me,” leaving the chapter on a note of rising attraction and tension.