Chapter 20 Summary, Analysis, and Key Takeaways

⚠️ 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

Ruthie and Melanie arrive at the thrift store, where Renata and Teddy are already waiting. Renata is arguing with Kurt, the sales assistant, about selling a vintage Hermès riding jacket, while Teddy points out that all jackets are three dollars. Kurt, who has recently gotten a haircut, greets Ruthie warmly and shows her a selection of clothes he has set aside for her. Melanie, introducing herself as the founder of the “Sasaki Method,” begins curating outfits, rejecting anything she deems too conservative or “old Ruthie.”

Renata confronts Ruthie about the Christmas party’s “vintage prom” theme, accusing her of deliberately taunting her about missing her own prom. Ruthie insists it was not intentional and invites Renata to attend as a second chance. Melanie mentions that she is arranging a dress-hire company for the event, which Renata scoffs at. Teddy asks where his invitation is, and Ruthie hands it to him, explaining she had planned to give it to him later. Renata then asks Teddy to design a tattoo for her, and he agrees, mentioning his friend Alistair will do the inking.

While Ruthie tries on dresses, Melanie receives a dating app match for Ruthie and reads her a message from a man named Kurt (though this is a different Kurt—the store assistant). Ruthie reads the message herself, finding it uninspiring. As she tries on a particularly flattering dress, Teddy sneaks into the changing room and kisses her passionately. The moment is intense, and Teddy admits he cannot stand being apart from her. He tells her she doesn’t need to change, that she is already lovely, but Ruthie insists she wants to turn over a new leaf. Their kiss is interrupted by Kurt asking if Ruthie needs help, and Teddy’s jealousy is palpable.

After Ruthie finishes shopping, Kurt asks for her phone number, and she gives it to him, despite her lingering feelings for Teddy. Outside, Ruthie confronts Teddy about his behavior, accusing him of sabotaging her efforts to move on. Teddy reveals that Alistair demands full payment for the tattoo shop, and he has only saved half. He admits he has never finished anything important and fears he won’t make it. Renata scolds Teddy for being selfish, reminding him that Ruthie is a real person, not a plaything. The drive home is silent.

Key Events

Renata argues with Kurt about selling a jacket, and Teddy comments on the price.
Renata accuses Ruthie of taunting her with the “vintage prom” theme; Ruthie denies it and invites her to attend.
Teddy receives his invitation to the Christmas party.
Renata commissions Teddy to design a tattoo for her.
Melanie receives a dating app match for Ruthie; Ruthie reads a message from a potential suitor.
Ruthie tries on dresses, and Teddy joins her in the changing room, sharing an intense kiss.
Kurt asks for Ruthie’s phone number, and she gives it to him.
Outside, Ruthie and Teddy argue; Teddy reveals Alistair requires full payment for the tattoo shop.
Renata scolds Teddy for being selfish, and they drive home in silence.

Character Development

Ruthie undergoes a significant transformation in this chapter. She steps out of her comfort zone by trying on new clothes and embracing the makeover process. Her decision to give Kurt her number shows a newfound willingness to consider a future beyond Teddy, even as her feelings for Teddy complicate matters. She also demonstrates emotional maturity by confronting Teddy about his behavior and by acknowledging her own worth.

Teddy reveals a vulnerable side. His jealousy over Kurt and his admission that he has never finished anything important expose his deep-seated insecurity. His confession about Alistair’s demand for full payment shows that his dream of owning a tattoo shop is fragile, and he fears he will fail. His behavior in the changing room—both possessive and tender—highlights his internal conflict between wanting Ruthie and fearing he cannot offer her a stable future.

Renata shows a softer side beneath her gruff exterior. Her regret about missing her prom and her willingness to consider attending the party suggest a desire for redemption. She also acts as a protective figure, scolding Teddy for his selfishness and reminding him that Ruthie deserves respect.

Melanie continues to serve as Ruthie’s cheerleader and pragmatic guide. She orchestrates the makeover, manages Ruthie’s dating profile, and tries to keep Teddy in check. Her insistence on the “Sasaki Method” underscores her belief in self-improvement and new beginnings.

Themes, Symbols, or Motifs

Self-Transformation and Makeover: The thrift store setting and the process of selecting new clothes symbolize Ruthie’s desire to reinvent herself. The “miracle dress” that makes her feel beautiful represents the possibility of change.
Regret and Second Chances: Renata’s missed prom and her chance to attend the “vintage prom” party highlight the theme of regret and the opportunity to right past wrongs.
Identity and Clothing: The clothes Ruthie tries on reflect different versions of herself—the “old Ruthie” versus the new, more confident woman. Teddy’s insistence that she doesn’t need to change challenges the idea that external transformation is necessary.
Jealousy and Possessiveness: Teddy’s jealousy over Kurt and his physical claim on Ruthie in the changing room illustrate his fear of losing her.
Tattoos as Commitment: Renata’s request for a tattoo design and Teddy’s connection to Alistair symbolize permanence and the fear of commitment. Teddy’s unfinished tattoos mirror his fear of not following through.
Belief vs. Doubt: Teddy’s self-doubt contrasts with Ruthie’s belief in him. She points to his tattoos as evidence of his ability to finish things, but he dismisses her faith.

Why This Chapter Matters

This chapter is pivotal for Ruthie and Teddy’s relationship. The kiss in the changing room deepens their physical and emotional connection, but it also forces Ruthie to confront the reality that Teddy is leaving. Her decision to give Kurt her number shows her attempt to be practical, yet her heart is clearly with Teddy. Teddy’s revelation about Alistair’s payment demand adds tension to his dream, making his departure uncertain. The chapter also advances Renata’s arc, as she begins to consider attending the prom-themed party, hinting at a possible reconciliation with her past.

Study Questions and Answers

Why does Renata accuse Ruthie of taunting her about the “vintage prom” theme?

Renata believes Ruthie deliberately chose the theme to remind her of missing her own prom, which she calls her biggest life regret. Ruthie insists it was not intentional and invites Renata to attend as a second chance.

What does Teddy reveal about his tattoo shop plans, and how does it affect his mood?

Teddy reveals that Alistair requires full payment for the tattoo shop, and he has only saved half. He admits he has never finished anything important, and this doubt makes him defensive and withdrawn.

How does Ruthie’s decision to give Kurt her number reflect her internal conflict?

Ruthie gives Kurt her number because he is nice, in her league, and a permanent resident—qualities that align with her practical goals. However, her lingering feelings for Teddy make her question whether she can truly move on, as evidenced by her distraction and the tension between them.