Chapter 36

On Saturday afternoon, the group embraces a celebratory mood with sunflower bouquets, a jokey birthday cake, and semiformal outfits as a photographer captures them lounging by the pool. Parth and Wyn react joyfully to Cleo and Kimmy’s pregnancy news, and the friends toast with champagne and cider while teasing baby names.

A wedding officiant arrives, and by late afternoon Sabrina and Parth exchange vows at the dock, tearfully committing to each other. The friends plunge into the cold harbor, then warm up by the pool, order pizza, and avoid discussing the impending farewells to each other and the cottage.

At sunset they gather on the rocks for a fire, roast marshmallows, and light sparklers, reminiscing about college days and past homes. Kimmy suggests future returns to Maine; Sabrina wonders about new destinations, and Wyn squeezes Harriet’s hand at the uncertainty. Wyn gives Harriet his sweatshirt, a tender gesture underscoring their connection.

Late that night, Harriet and Wyn retreat to their room, drawn together by long-familiar desire and comfort. They undress slowly, choosing to live fully in the moment despite knowing morning brings change. During their intimacy, Wyn repeats “I love you,” insisting the words belong to Harriet across any universe, while Harriet wrestles with wanting to hold on and her fear of loss.

Half asleep against Wyn’s chest, Harriet hears him whisper his love once more and murmurs back a soft acknowledgment. The chapter closes on their fragile, fervent reunion amid the group’s bittersweet celebration and the imminent end of their time at the cottage.