Chapter 12

Before dinner, Harriet chooses a tight red “vengeance” dress, anticipating the night and baiting Wyn. In the kitchen, Sabrina rallies the group for a hard-partying evening while Wyn appears distracted and clumsy, spilling water. The friends pile into a cab for the Lobster Hut, their long-time haunt.

Arriving, Harriet bristles when Wyn steadies her, snapping that he no longer knows her. Inside, the bar’s nostalgia triggers memories of past loneliness eased by Sabrina and Cleo’s support, underscoring the looming loss of their shared cottage. Cleo senses Harriet’s unease, and they briefly catch up: Cleo and Kimmy’s farm is thriving; Harriet gives a too-bright update on residency.

At the table, tension with Wyn deepens. Harriet chooses soda over alcohol to stay clearheaded yet taunts Wyn by sitting on his lap and performing exaggerated intimacy. The group reminisces about early trips and Kimmy’s first visit, while Harriet’s thoughts return to what will happen after the cottage is sold and the truth about her and Wyn is revealed.

When Wyn quietly asks to talk outside, Harriet refuses and escalates the performance, praising his hair and beard as their friends banter about couples’ trips. As the crowd sings along to karaoke, Wyn abruptly stands, declares the current song is “theirs,” and pulls Harriet into the crowd, maneuvering her into a forced private moment.