Contents
Chapter Twenty-Six: Russ
Overview
On his birthday, Russ spirals about dating Aurora amid her public family and his fear of fame. Xander challenges his insecurity and urges him not to self-sabotage. Back at camp, Aurora surprises Russ with his college friends and heartfelt gifts, including a wish coupon he redeems for a real date. Their commitment deepens despite rules and exposure risks.
Summary
In Meadow Springs on his birthday, Russ broods while having lunch with Xander. He admits he’s considering ending things with Aurora because her public family life clashes with his dread of fame and scrutiny, and because they were nearly caught breaking camp rules.
Xander challenges Russ’s logic, arguing that privacy fears are manageable, reminding him he wouldn’t abandon famous friends, and confronting Russ’s core insecurity about not deserving Aurora. Xander insists Russ is good enough and warns that bailing now would hurt Aurora and become a regret.
They return to Honey Acres, where Xander blindfolds Russ for a surprise. When the blindfold comes off, Russ finds his college friends—JJ, Nate, Henry, Robbie, Kris, and Bobby—have arrived. Campers Sadia and Leon present a handmade card, and Jenna hints she knows more than she says while sanctioning the celebration.
Russ spots Aurora with Emilia and thanks them. Aurora gives him origami “Fish” dogs, a vintage presidents book, and a “One Birthday Wish” coupon. Russ immediately redeems it by asking Aurora for a real date, and she agrees, solidifying their intention to keep seeing each other.
After cake and presents, the campers head to bed and friends debrief. Russ learns Aurora and JJ organized the visit in under a day, with Orla’s permission under strict supervision. Though they can’t be openly together, Russ tells Nate and Robbie he truly likes Aurora and wants both deep partnership and friendship, embracing the risk instead of retreating.
Who Appears
- Russ CallaghanBirthday honoree; considers ending things over privacy fears, then chooses Aurora, asking her on a real date.
- XanderFriend and coworker; gives blunt pep talk, escorts Russ, and helps set up the surprise return to camp.
- Aurora RobertsOrganizes Russ’s surprise party, gifts origami dogs and a wish coupon, agrees to a real date.
- JennaCamp staff lead; manages the celebration, hints she suspects the secret, doesn’t intervene.
- EmiliaAurora’s sister; helps coordinate the surprise and shares a warm moment with Russ.
- JJCollege friend; arrives with the group to celebrate and reconnect with Russ.
- NateCollege friend; teases Russ, notes Aurora’s effort, nudges him toward commitment.
- RobbieRoommate and friend; jokes about relationships and observes Russ’s growing attachment.
- HenryRoommate; attends the surprise party and ribs the camp experience.
- KrisFriend; part of the visiting college group celebrating Russ.
- BobbyFriend; joins the celebration, comically upset Jenna doesn’t recognize him.
- SadiaCamper; presents a handmade card and scolds Russ for swearing.
- LeonCamper; helps deliver the card, joking about cabin misadventures.
- OrlaCamp leadership; permits visitor access under lanyard and supervision rules.