Chapter 33 (Chapter 35): The Time We Get Summary and Analysis

⚠️ 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

Evie and X are on the sidewalk watching her dad drive away from Taco Night. X arrived without warning, hoping to share the finished music for “Black Box.” Inside, Evie offers him water and they talk about her evening with her father. She feels conflicted about enjoying herself, and X admits he still resents having fun without his late friend Clay. Evie gives X a tour of the apartment, nervously cleaning her room before letting him in. He notices the empty Contemporary Romance shelf, and she explains she is no longer into those stories. On the patio, X reveals that today is the one-year anniversary of Clay’s death. He recounts how Clay was killed by a distracted adult driver while crossing the street. Evie comforts him, and after a quiet moment, she asks him to share stories about Clay. They dance to Bollywood music from a neighbor, and Evie’s mother arrives home, meeting X for the first time. Mom approves, then sets a curfew. Before leaving, X suggests a bonfire with Evie’s friends. Evie admits she stopped hanging out with Sophie and Cassidy because they are dating and she fears their inevitable breakup. X argues that she is wasting the time she has with them, saying earnestly, “The time we get is the time we get.” They end their first argument on a light note, agreeing to try harder next time.

Key Events

X surprises Evie at her apartment after finishing the music for “Black Box.”
Evie shows X her bedroom; he notices the empty romance shelf and she explains she no longer enjoys those books.
On the patio, X opens up about the one-year anniversary of Clay’s death—killed by an adult texting while driving.
Evie comforts X and encourages him to talk about Clay; they share a vulnerable moment.
They dance to Bollywood music, and X’s mood lifts.
Evie’s mother arrives home, meets X, and teases them about ballroom dancing dangers.
Mom shares that her date went well and she plans to go hiking next weekend.
X invites Evie to a bonfire, but she explains her falling-out with Sophie and Cassidy.
X challenges Evie’s decision to distance herself from her friends, telling her she is missing out on time she cannot get back.
They share a hug and acknowledge their first argument was not too bad.

Character Development

Evie: Shows growth in her ability to be present for someone else’s grief. She initially struggles with vulnerability (hiding bras, avoiding romance books) but later comforts X without offering empty platitudes. Her fear of future heartbreak is challenged by X’s words, planting seeds for possible reconciliation with Sophie and Cassidy.
X: Reveals the depth of his pain from losing Clay, including anger at an adult’s irresponsible act. His grief does not prevent him from finding joy in dancing, but he admits he still resents having fun without his friend. By urging Evie to value the present, he demonstrates hard-won wisdom.
Mom (Evelyn): Shows a lighter, more open side after her date. She approves of X quickly and uses humor to connect, signaling her growing trust in Evie’s judgment.
Evie’s father: Though only briefly seen, he initiates Taco Night, showing effort to rebuild their relationship. Evie admits the outing was “nice,” indicating a softening toward her dad.

Themes, Symbols, or Motifs

Grief and vulnerability: X’s raw account of Clay’s death and Evie’s quiet support highlight the importance of sitting with pain without trying to fix it. The “Black Box” song (unheard in this chapter) symbolizes the music they are creating together despite loss.
Time as a limited resource: X’s core message—“people don’t come back, the time we get is the time we get”—acts as a thematic pivot. It challenges Evie’s habit of avoiding potential pain at the cost of present joy.
Symbolism of the empty romance shelf: Evie’s rejection of romance novels mirrors her fear of love and heartbreak. X’s curiosity about her favorite title, Cupcakes and Kisses, hints at her buried desire for connection.
Bollywood dancing: A moment of pure, carefree expression that contrasts with the strict ballroom routines. It shows Evie and X finding their own rhythm together—messy, joyful, and unscripted.

Why This Chapter Matters

This chapter is a turning point in Evie and X’s relationship, moving beyond dance practice into real emotional intimacy. X’s grief humanizes him fully, and Evie’s response shows her capacity for empathy. The argument about Sophie and Cassidy forces Evie to confront the central flaw in her worldview: her attempt to protect herself from future heartbreak is costing her meaningful present relationships. X’s direct challenge—“look at all the time you’re missing”—sets up a critical change in Evie’s arc. Meanwhile, the positive interactions with both of Evie’s parents suggest that her family is healing. The chapter ties together themes of loss, love, and the preciousness of time, preparing readers for the story’s climax.

Study Questions and Answers

Why does X get angry about the circumstances of Clay’s death?
Answer: X is furious because Clay’s death was entirely preventable—a grown adult was texting while driving. X expected adults to “know better,” and the betrayal of that trust deepens his anger and grief.
How does Evie respond when X shows vulnerability about Clay?
Answer: She removes his guitar, sits beside him, and wraps both arms around him. She does not tell him everything will be fine; instead she lets him lean on her in silence. Later she asks him to share memories, giving him space to grieve openly.
What does X mean by “The time we get is the time we get”?
Answer: X refers to the finite nature of life and relationships. He argues that fearing future pain (like a friends’ breakup) should not keep Evie from enjoying the present moment. He would give anything for more time with Clay, so she should cherish the time she has with Sophie and Cassidy now.

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