In 1914, on the anniversary of the curse, Addie returns once more to Villon. She is devastated to find that the tree she planted over Estele’s grave has been cut down. When Luc inevitably appears, Addie asks if he did it, which he denies: “I know I can be cruel. But nature can be crueler” (364). Addie will never return to Villon.

After transporting Addie to Paris, Luc admits he is lonely without her. He gives her back the wooden ring she buried as an offering and tells her he will come whenever she puts it on. Finally, Luc warns her to leave Europe because war is imminent. A week later, she leaves for New York.

It is July 29, 2014, Addie’s first anniversary since meeting Henry. Although she has not seen Luc in 30 years, she fears that he will come today to ruin her happiness with Henry. Eager to reclaim the day for themselves, Henry convinces Addie to come with him to Rockaway Beach. At the end of the day, Henry says “I love you” for the first time, and Addie replies, “I love you too,” unsure if she means it.