Chapter 132: ¿Por qué no? — Ryder and Gigi Navigate New Territory
⚠️ 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
Ryder visits Gigi's dorm, where he teases her about researching butterfly mating habits. Gigi mentions that Casey texted her about their night out and the breakup. She then asks Ryder whether kissing counts as cheating; he firmly says yes. This answer pleases her, and she performs oral sex on him. Afterwards, Ryder impulsively asks her on a date. Gigi deflects, claiming she is too feminine for him (citing her love of butterflies, flowers, and opera). Ryder reflects on whether he could be boyfriend material, but Gigi insists dating would complicate things.
Key Events
- Ryder arrives at Hartford House carrying flowers; Gigi’s roommate Mya greets him as “Chico flor” (“Flower Boy”).
- In Gigi’s room, Ryder explains he researched butterfly mating to learn how they have sex.
- Gigi reveals that Casey texted her about their night out and confirmed the couple’s breakup.
- Gigi asks Ryder if kissing someone else while in a relationship counts as cheating. Ryder says yes.
- Satisfied with his answer, Gigi performs oral sex on Ryder.
- Afterward, Ryder asks Gigi on a date. She declines, citing their differences and saying she would only consider an opera date.
- Ryder internally questions the idea of being “boyfriend material” and whether Gigi would want that.
Character Development
- Ryder: For the first time, he openly considers a romantic label. Previously content with casual encounters, he now wonders if he can be a boyfriend. His jealousy over Casey texting Gigi reveals genuine feelings.
- Gigi: She sets boundaries, actively avoiding a date by joking about her feminine interests. She tests Ryder’s views on loyalty (kissing = cheating) and, once satisfied, rewards him physically. Her deflection suggests fear of vulnerability or of being hurt again.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Butterflies as a symbol of transformation and commitment: Gigi’s room is full of butterfly decor. Ryder researches butterfly mating—specifically a species where the male uses an anti-aphrodisiac to ward off rivals. This mirrors his growing desire to claim Gigi exclusively.
- Loyalty and definitions of cheating: The chapter explores what constitutes cheating. Gigi’s explicit question and Ryder’s black-and-white answer reinforce the theme of trust in relationships.
- “Boyfriend material” vs. “not boyfriend material”: Ryder grapples with Shane’s earlier assessment. This chapter marks a turning point where he begins to re-evaluate his own identity.
Why This Chapter Matters
Chapter 132 is a pivotal moment for Ryder’s emotional arc. It shifts the dynamic from purely physical to romantic possibility. Ryder’s request for a date—despite his earlier claims that he doesn’t “do feelings”—shows genuine growth. Gigi’s refusal, while playful, sets up future tension: she may be protecting herself from a situation she views as doomed. The chapter also deepens the trust theme by having Gigi verify Ryder’s stance on infidelity before becoming intimate.
Study Questions and Answers
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What does Ryder research about butterflies, and why?
He researches butterfly mating habits to understand their sexual mechanics, specifically mentioning a tropical species where the male sprays the female with an anti-aphrodisiac to prevent other males from mating with her. -
How does Gigi deflect Ryder’s invitation to a date?
She claims she is “too feminine” for him, listing her love of butterflies, flowers, and opera. She then says an opera date is the only kind she would consider, knowing it’s not his style. This allows her to avoid a real date without directly rejecting him. -
What does Ryder realize after Gigi performs oral sex on him?
He recalls Shane’s comment that Gigi is “girlfriend material” but he is not “boyfriend material.” For the first time, he questions whether that might be untrue, wondering, “¿Por qué no?” (Why not?). This marks the beginning of his willingness to consider a committed relationship.