Summary

In Chapter 7, the next morning, Jack encountered Cody at the lodge. Cody gave Jack a key "on a marlin keychain" (136). He was to use it for the gate when he took Alison to Tomichi Creek. Cody also said that a new couple had arrived. Jack felt confused by some of what Cody said.

Sitting quietly with his coffee, Jack tried telling himself that there was nothing "better than this" (140).

Over breakfast with Alison, Jack silently recalled his other relationships. It "was different" with Alison (143). He could be himself.

They spent a pleasant morning together. They did not touch, but Jack felt satisfied being near her. At the end of the day, Jack told her what he always tried to tell himself: "What could be better than this" (146)? They talked about this idea. Then Jack told Alison that he had seen Shay "loading maybe...