Contents
Chapter 10
Overview
In a senior-year flashback, Wyn fails classes and remains in Vermont, moving in with Harriet, Sabrina, and Cleo. He promises not to make things awkward, dates Alison, and studies with Harriet, while small daily rituals bond them. When everyone commits to New York after graduation, Harriet realizes she’s in love with Wyn, deepening the stakes of their present-day ruse.
Summary
In a flashback to senior year in Mattingly, Vermont, Harriet, Sabrina, and Cleo rent a creaky Victorian apartment, expecting Wyn to be in New York with Parth. Because Wyn failed a math class and missed a history requirement, he stays in Vermont and takes the smallest bedroom, moving in with them.
Early on, Wyn quietly promises Harriet he will not make their living situation awkward. He keeps his distance romantically, casually dating and then consistently seeing a dancer named Alison, while maintaining a friendly routine with Harriet.
As Wyn struggles with math, Harriet tutors him in the library. Wyn deflects with self-deprecating jokes that unsettle Harriet, who counters by supporting him. Their late-night sessions, snacks, and gentle moments—like Wyn wiping ink from Harriet’s cheek—deepen their connection without crossing lines.
The four friends share meals, porch time, and winter walks. Wyn’s small, thoughtful gestures—like bringing Harriet blueberry ice cream—accumulate into an unspoken intimacy. Their daily cooperation cements Wyn as one of Harriet’s closest friends.
When Harriet and Sabrina are accepted to Columbia and Cleo chooses an urban farm in New York, the group decides to move there together with Parth. Harriet recognizes that more of her heart belongs to Wyn than not, admitting she’s in love with him despite trying not to be.
Who Appears
- HarrietNarrator; tutors Wyn, shares daily rituals, and gradually realizes she’s in love with him.
- Wyn ConnorFails classes, moves in with the group, dates Alison, studies with Harriet, and grows close while promising not to complicate things.
- SabrinaRoommate; shares the apartment and celebrates Columbia admission, part of the plan to move to New York.
- CleoRoommate; plans an urban farm job in New York, helping anchor the group’s postgrad move.
- ParthWyn’s best friend in New York; sends donuts and is part of the future NYC living plan.
- AlisonDancer Wyn dates steadily during senior year, highlighting Harriet and Wyn’s unspoken boundary.