Chapter 13

At Foster’s gym after a run, Jasper and Foster process Foster’s official retirement announcement. Jasper supports the decision but feels unmoored, realizing his identity has long been tied to Foster’s career and bracing for life changes, including the end of his marriage to Eloise and distance from the Edens.

While Foster showers, Samantha calls to needle Jasper about his work and sex life. Pushed past his limits, Jasper reveals he is married and will bring his wife to Samantha’s wedding. The call ends abruptly, leaving Jasper unsettled by their years-long toxic dynamic.

Foster returns and, changing lunch plans, shares that Talia is pregnant. Jasper is genuinely happy for his friend but feels the contrast with his own uncertain path.

Back at the A-frame, Jasper finds Eloise home. He tells her about Foster’s retirement and admits he doesn’t know what comes next. Eloise offers quiet reassurance, their physical closeness easing his turmoil.

Desire overtakes them; Jasper carries Eloise to bed. Before and during sex, he asks for a promise that a special move he taught her remains only his, a jealous claim that exposes his fear of losing her. Their encounter is intense and possessive, ending with mutual acknowledgment that they will remember each other even after they separate.