Chapter 38: Emmett Reveals His Heart to Reese
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
During a road trip to Colorado for a home series, Emmett and Reese struggle to find private time because their hotel rooms are on opposite ends of the hall. The limited closeness frustrates Emmett, but he seizes an opportunity to share something deeply personal. He rents a truck and drives Reese an hour into the mountains to a secluded lake house—the home where he raised his adopted daughter, Miller, from age five until she left for college.
As they arrive, Emmett explains that he bought the cabin after leaving professional baseball. He gives Reese a thorough tour, describing the living room where Miller colored while he studied game film for his first coaching job, the tiny kitchen where she discovered her passion for baking, and the dining table where they did homework together. He shows her the green-painted bedroom where Miller displayed her softball trophies on shelves he built, and his own bedroom where he spent sleepless nights trying to figure out how to be a better father. Reese listens with quiet attention, understanding the significance of being invited into this private history.
After the tour, they sit on the dock at the edge of the lake. The sun is warm, the water calm. Reese, still carrying a worry from earlier in their relationship, asks Emmett about a comment he made the first night she slept in his room—that he “didn’t have it in him to move on.” Emmett realizes she misunderstood. He clarifies that he meant he was too exhausted and busy as a single dad to pursue romance, not that his heart was still taken by his late partner, Claire. He explains that his love for Claire has transformed into gratitude for the daughter she gave him, and that he is fully present with Reese.
Relieved, Reese reassures him that she is comfortable with him speaking about Claire. Then Emmett invites her to Miller and Kai’s upcoming wedding. He reveals that Miller herself suggested he bring his “person.” Reese accepts, her smile shining. Overcome with joy, Emmett strips off his clothes and jumps into the lake, convincing Reese to join him for a spontaneous skinny-dip that symbolizes their carefree connection.
Key Events
- Emmett and Reese are on a road trip in Colorado; their hotel rooms are far apart, limiting private time.
- Emmett rents a truck and drives Reese to his old lake house where he raised Miller.
- He gives a detailed tour: living room, kitchen, dining area, Miller’s bedroom with trophy shelves, and his own bedroom.
- On the dock, Reese asks about Emmett’s earlier statement that he “didn’t have it in him to move on.”
- Emmett clarifies: he meant he was too busy as a single dad, not emotionally unavailable.
- He explains his love for Claire has become gratitude for Miller.
- Reese assures him she is comfortable with him talking about Claire.
- Emmett invites Reese to Miller and Kai’s wedding; Miller suggested he bring her.
- Reese accepts.
- They go skinny-dipping in the lake, laughing and carefree.
Character Development
Emmett shows profound vulnerability by bringing Reese to the home that holds his most challenging and rewarding years. He openly corrects a misunderstanding that could have hindered their relationship, demonstrating his commitment to transparency. His reflection that love feels “more sacred” this time around reveals his maturity and appreciation for second chances. By inviting Reese to Miller’s wedding, he takes a concrete step toward integrating her into his family.
Reese exemplifies patience and trust. She asks a difficult question without accusation, listens to Emmett’s explanation, and immediately offers reassurance. Her willingness to accept the wedding invitation—despite the public nature of the event—shows her readiness to be seen as part of his world.
Miller (mentioned off-page) plays an active role by giving permission for Reese to visit the house and by suggesting Emmett bring her to the wedding. This demonstrates her approval and her desire for her father to be happy.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Vulnerability and Trust: Emmett’s decision to share the house and clarify his past creates a foundation of trust. Reese’s gentle questioning and acceptance reinforce this theme.
- Family as a Foundation: The lake house symbolizes the stability Emmett built for Miller. Now he offers that same stability to Reese, making her part of his family narrative.
- Love After Loss: Emmett’s transformation from grief to gratitude shows that loving again does not erase past love. His love for Claire is honored, not replaced.
- Playfulness and Joy: The skinny-dip represents a return to spontaneity and youthful delight, a feeling Emmett thought he had lost. It symbolizes the lightness Reese brings to his life.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter marks a turning point in Emmett and Reese’s relationship. By inviting her into his past and clarifying his emotional availability, Emmett removes a major obstacle of insecurity. The wedding invitation, endorsed by Miller, solidifies Reese’s place in his family. It also resolves Reese’s worry that Emmett might not be fully present. After this chapter, their bond is stronger, more honest, and ready for the next step.
Study Questions and Answers
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Why does Emmett bring Reese to his old lake house?
Emmett wants to share the place where he raised Miller because he never had someone to share that part of his life with. After talking with Miller, he feels ready to involve Reese in every part of his world, including his past. -
What did Emmett mean when he said he “didn’t have it in me to move on”?
Emmett clarifies that he was referring to the exhaustion and time constraints of being a single father—he was too busy raising Miller to pursue a relationship. He was not emotionally stuck on his late partner Claire. -
How does Miller show her support for Emmett and Reese’s relationship?
Miller gives Emmett permission to bring Reese to the lake house. She also suggests that Emmett invite Reese to her wedding, saying their family is growing and he deserves to have his person there.