A few days later, Olive goes to Adam’s place to chat with Tom about her research and report. Tom offers her a spot in his lab next year, and Olive’s heart “explode[s] with joy in her chest” (157). Adam drives her back to campus, and they discuss academia. Adam almost gave up on research until Tom helped him find a new project and rekindled his love. Adam notes that academia is tough and that, “It’s hard to stick around without a good reason to do so” (160). The way he says it reminds Olive of the guy she met in the bathroom before her interview, and she wonders if that guy was Adam.

Olive proposes they get coffee to celebrate, even though their coffee day isn’t until tomorrow. Adam agrees, but when Olive also suggests they get flu shots, he refuses. Olive realizes that he’s afraid of needles and tells a story about her mom that makes her cry. She reiterates that Adam is getting his shot, and though he protests, he goes with her. As they walk across the quad, Olive takes his hand, which feels warm and natural.