Chapter 4 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

The chapter opens with the trip to London officially scheduled for the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Stevie's parents, who were initially disappointed that she would not be home for the holiday, quickly change their minds when they learn that David is part of the trip. Their affection for David, rooted in their admiration for his father, makes the parental hurdle easy to clear. The other members of the group also receive permission from their families, aided by an official-looking email from the American embassy that lends legitimacy to their plans.

In the weeks leading up to the departure, Stevie goes through the motions of student life. She attends classes, does her readings, and participates in study parties, but her mind is elsewhere. She is consumed by a mix of excitement and anxiety, her thoughts circling around one subject: her relationship with David and the possibility of becoming physically intimate with him.

A few days before the trip, Stevie seeks advice from her friend Janelle. She struggles to articulate her question, but Janelle quickly understands and bluntly asks if Stevie wants to have sex with David. Stevie confirms, and Janelle shifts into practical mode, suggesting they shop for lingerie online. The shopping session is a comedic failure. Stevie rejects every option Janelle suggests—lace is too expensive, colors are wrong, and nothing feels like her. Janelle tries to guide her toward what makes her feel confident, but Stevie admits that nothing does. The session ends without a purchase, though Stevie has secretly already bought something for her suitcase.

On the flight, Stevie plans to be productive but instead falls into a daze. She watches Murder on the Orient Express, a movie she has seen many times, and struggles with a packet of salad dressing that explodes down her hoodie and into Nate's hair. She does not tell him.

When the plane lands at Heathrow, Stevie turns on her data and finds a series of playful texts from David, who has been tracking her flight. She tries to respond but is caught up in the rush to disembark. The group navigates the long corridors of the airport, passes through immigration with little trouble, and collects their bags. Stevie hopes David will be waiting outside, but he is not. Instead, they are met by a driver holding a clipboard with their names misspelled—including Stevie's as