Chapter 23 Summary: "22 Needy anaconda of lust"

This summary is based on the book Mistakes Were Made by Lucy Score.

⚠️ 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

Zoey wakes up wrapped around Gage and panics. She sneaks out of his house, falls down the porch steps when startled by a donkey, and fractures her wrist. Gage’s mother catches her mid-escape. Gage drives Zoey to Dr. Ace, then insists on breakfast. Over waffles, he calls out her vulnerable reaction and proposes a no-strings, stress‑relief arrangement. Zoey agrees to think it over.

Key Events

Zoey realizes she spent the night at Gage’s and attempts a stealthy exit.
She falls down the steps after being startled by the miniature donkey Pepe.
Pep Bishop, Gage’s mother, witnesses the scene and helps.
Gage takes Zoey to Dr. Ace, who confirms a broken wrist.
Gage hides Zoey behind a bush to avoid gossipy Ms. Patsy.
Over breakfast, Gage articulates Zoey’s fear of vulnerability.
Gage proposes a continuing casual sexual arrangement; Zoey is skeptical but intrigued.

Character Development

Zoey Moody: Reveals a pattern of fleeing emotional intimacy after a painful college breakup. Her ADHD diagnosis is mentioned as a factor in her disorganization and transition difficulties. She struggles to reconcile her “wild child” identity with her enjoyment of Gage’s company.
Gage Bishop: Shows his caring side by making her a sling, driving her to the doctor, and cutting her food. He demonstrates self‑awareness about his usual seriousness and embraces a temporary “Fun Me” persona, indicating a desire to break free from his responsible image.
Pep Bishop: Appears supportive and nonjudgmental, joking with Zoey to ease the embarrassment. She recognizes that Gage needed a “brush with fun.”
Pepe (donkey) and Nana (dog): Serve as comedic catalysts and reveal the small‑town, animal‑filled setting.

Themes, Symbols, or Motifs

Vulnerability and self‑protection: Zoey’s attempted escape and her aversion to morning‑after conversations reflect her fear of emotional exposure.
Casual versus serious relationships: The chapter frames casual sex as a coping mechanism for both characters—Zoey’s usual avoidance and Gage’s temporary relief from his routine.
ADHD and executive function: Zoey’s internal commentary highlights her ADHD‑related struggles with transitions and planning.
Small‑town gossip: The near‑encounter with Ms. Patsy underscores the risk of public scrutiny in a close‑knit community.

Why This Chapter Matters

This chapter transforms the one‑night stand into an ongoing arrangement, setting the stage for a deeper, complex relationship. It exposes Zoey’s core emotional wounds and forces her to confront her fear of intimacy—a key conflict for her character arc. Gage’s proposal also signals his departure from his rigid, responsible persona, adding tension to his own development.

Study Questions and Answers

Why does Zoey decide to sneak out of Gage’s house, and what does this reveal about her?
Zoey leaves because she never stays overnight after casual sex; staying feels too intimate and vulnerable. This reveals her deep‑seated fear of emotional attachment, rooted in a past painful breakup.
How does Gage’s reaction to Zoey’s escape differ from what she expects?
Instead of being upset or embarrassed, Gage remains calm and caring. He helps her into a sling, drives her to the doctor, and later calls out her vulnerability with kindness, offering a casual arrangement rather than pushing for commitment.
What is the significance of Gage’s proposal for a no‑strings, stress‑relief arrangement?
It allows both characters to continue their physical connection without formal expectations. For Zoey, it feels safe because it matches her usual script; for Gage, it represents a temporary break from his responsible, planner‑type personality. The arrangement sets up future tension as feelings may develop.