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The book revolves around the complex and troubled lives of its characters, particularly Eve, a high school math teacher, and Addie, a student in Eve's husband Nate's English class. The story begins with Eve's discovery of Nate's infidelity with Addie, which sets off a chain of events that ultimately leads to Eve's attempted murder by Nate. However, Eve survives being buried alive and seeks revenge against her husband with the help of her lover Jay. Meanwhile, Addie's involvement with Nate and her role in Eve's attempted murder are slowly revealed, and she eventually teams up with her classmate Kenzie to expose Nate's abuse of power and bring him to justice. Throughout the book, the characters' dark secrets and desires are exposed, leading to a dramatic and intense conclusion. The novel explores themes of marriage, infidelity, abuse of power, and the complexities of human relationships, raising questions about morality, loyalty, and the consequences of one's actions.
The narrator is engaged in the arduous task of digging a grave in a remote wooded area, struggling with the physical pain and bitter cold. As they dig, they contemplate the appropriate depth for the grave, weighing the need for secrecy against the risk of discovery by animals. The narrator's solitude is interrupted by ominous sounds, initially suspected to be an intruder, but ultimately revealed to be a squirrel. Despite the brief reprieve from tension, the narrator recognizes the urgency of their task and presses on, driven by the need to complete the burial before dawn breaks.
The story takes a leap back in time to three months earlier, introducing Eve, a high school math teacher, and her husband Nate, an English teacher, as they prepare for the first day of school. The narrative delves into the monotony and ritualistic nature of their marriage, highlighting the stark contrast between Nate's charming and handsome exterior and Eve's feelings of inadequacy and plainness. As they go about their morning routine, Eve's inner turmoil and dissatisfaction with their predictable and loveless relationship become increasingly apparent. Despite Nate's admirable even-temper and kindness, Eve finds herself suffocating under the weight of their stifling routine and conventional expectations, culminating in a dark and desperate wish for a tragic escape from her unfulfilling life.
The story introduces Addie, a high school student who is reluctant to attend her first day of school due to a traumatic event from the previous year. Her mother tries to reassure her that nobody will remember what happened, but Addie knows better. As she arrives at school, she is met with stares and whispers from her classmates, and she tries to blend in by dressing anonymously. However, her attempt to go unnoticed is thwarted when she encounters Kenzie, the popular and beautiful class president, who deliberately blocks her path and humiliates her in front of her friends. Addie is forced to retreat and find another way into the school, surrendering to Kenzie's bullying. The encounter reveals the complexities of high school social dynamics and the struggles of being an outcast, as Addie navigates a world where she feels powerless and alone.
The narrative delves into Eve's daily routine as a high school math teacher, where she meets with her friend Shelby in the teachers' lounge to discuss their summers and personal lives. Eve's inner thoughts reveal her dissatisfaction with her marriage to Nate and her curiosity about Shelby's relationship with her husband. The conversation takes a somber turn when they discuss Art, a former math teacher who was forced to resign due to controversy surrounding his character. Eve expresses her sympathies for Art and his family, and the conversation shifts to a student, Adeline Severson, who is in Eve's sixth-period class. Shelby warns Eve to be cautious around Adeline, implying that the girl is troubled, and Eve admits to having a sinking feeling about her. The chapter explores Eve's insecurities, her observations of those around her, and her apprehensions about the upcoming school year.
Addie's first day of school continues to be a struggle as she navigates the cafeteria at lunchtime, feeling like an outcast. She's surprised when Ella, a girl she barely knows, invites her to sit together, but their conversation quickly turns awkward when Ella starts prying into Addie's past and the rumors surrounding her and Mr. Tuttle. Addie realizes Ella's true intentions are to gossip and spreads rumors, not to befriend her. Feeling uncomfortable and frustrated, Addie abandons her lunch and seeks refuge in the library, where she waits for her next class to begin. Meanwhile, she catches Hudson's eye, but he quickly looks away, reinforcing their strained relationship. Addie's difficulties in finding her place and being accepted by her peers are underscored by her experiences in the cafeteria, highlighting the challenges she faces as a social pariah.
Eve's suspicions about her husband Nate's fidelity are reignited when she sees him interacting with a new, young French teacher, Hailey, in the staff cafeteria. Eve tries to mark her territory by kissing Nate in front of Hailey, but her attempt at possessiveness is met with a fake smile from Nate. Later, Eve is lifted out of her funk by a conversation with a former student, Jasmine, who asks for a letter of recommendation, reminding Eve of the positive impact she can have on her students. However, Eve's attention is soon diverted to her new student, Adeline Severson, also known as Addie, whose presence in her class brings back memories of a troubled past and a warning from her friend Shelby to be cautious around her. As Eve navigates her complicated feelings about Nate, Hailey, and Addie, she begins to realize that Addie's presence may be more significant than she initially thought, particularly since Addie is also in Nate's class.
Addie's first day of school continues with her English class, where she encounters Kenzie, the popular and beautiful class president, who bullies her into giving up her seat. Addie is forced to sit in the front row, near her teacher, Mr. Bennett, who she finds to be handsome and charming. As the class discusses poetry, Addie is drawn to Mr. Bennett's enthusiasm and knowledge, particularly when he shares his love for Edgar Allan Poe. When Mr. Bennett asks Addie about her favorite poem, she reveals her love for "Annabel Lee," and they share a moment of connection over their shared appreciation for Poe's work. Despite the challenges she faces at school, Addie finds solace in her English class and feels a sense of belonging with Mr. Bennett, who seems to understand and appreciate her interests.
Eve's day takes an unexpected turn after school when she finds herself with free time and decides to drive to the mall. She visits an upscale shoe store, Footsies, where she tries on a pair of expensive Christian Louboutin pumps that fit her perfectly. Despite being tempted to purchase them, she is deterred by the high price tag and the potential disapproval of her husband, Nate. In a moment of impulsiveness, Eve decides to steal the shoes, hiding them in her large purse and making her way to the exit. However, just as she thinks she has gotten away with it, the store's alarm sounds, putting her theft in jeopardy.
Addie returns home from school, where her mother is waiting for her with a mix of concern and curiosity about her day. Addie's mother asks about her experiences at school, including whether she made any friends or spoke with her former friend Hudson, but Addie is evasive and unenthusiastic. The conversation also touches on Addie's former math teacher, Mr. Tuttle, who is no longer at the school, and Addie's mother seems relieved by his absence. However, it is clear that there are underlying tensions and unspoken truths surrounding the situation with Mr. Tuttle, and Addie is hesitant to discuss it further. As the conversation continues, Addie's frustrations and secrets begin to simmer just below the surface, hinting at a more complex and troubled reality beneath her reserved exterior.
Eve's attempt to steal a pair of expensive shoes from a mall store is foiled when the alarm sounds, but she narrowly avoids detection due to a security strip not being removed from another customer's purchase. Shaken, she returns the shoes and goes home, where she finds her husband Nate cooking dinner. Despite her initial desire for intimacy, Nate rebuffs her advances, citing his hunger and exhaustion, leaving Eve feeling frustrated and unfulfilled. The encounter highlights the emotional distance between the couple and Eve's growing sense of desperation and unhappiness in their marriage.
Addie's difficult day at school continues as she faces humiliation in the locker room after gym class, with Kenzie and her friend mocking her for not shaving her legs. Despite this, Addie finds solace in her English class with Mr. Bennett, who she feels genuinely enjoys teaching and appreciates her efforts. However, her comfort is short-lived as she discovers that Mr. Bennett wants to see her after class, leaving her anxious and unsure about what he wants to discuss, particularly after he comments on her personal poem in a way that suggests he found it troubling.
Eve encounters Art Tuttle, a former math teacher, at the grocery store, and they exchange awkward small talk. Art's reputation was destroyed after allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a student, Addie Severson, surfaced, and he was forced to resign. Eve reveals that Addie is now in her trig class, and Art's reaction is subdued. As they part ways, Art grabs Eve's arm and whispers urgently that she needs to listen to him, leaving Eve startled and unsure of what to expect. The encounter highlights the tension and uncertainty surrounding Art's past actions and his current situation, as well as Eve's own mixed feelings about his guilt or innocence.
Addie's English class comes to a close, and she is asked to see Mr. Bennett after class, which fills her with anxiety. However, instead of reprimanding her, Mr. Bennett praises her poem, finding it to be a lyrical masterpiece, and suggests that she should publish it in the school's poetry magazine, Reflections. He invites her to join the magazine's staff, thinking it would be a great way for her to meet like-minded students and make friends. Although Addie is initially hesitant and wonders if Mr. Bennett is just being kind out of pity, she eventually agrees to attend a meeting, despite a nagging voice in her head warning her that it might be a bad idea.
Eve encounters Art Tuttle again, this time at the grocery store, where he appears intoxicated and urgent. He warns Eve to be careful around Addie Severson, claiming that she is a troubled girl and implying that there is more to her story than Eve knows. Despite Art's obvious biases and personal stake in the situation, Eve is left with a sense of unease and concern for Addie's well-being. She decides to drive Art home, where his wife is waiting, and it becomes clear that their lives have been affected by the controversy surrounding Art's past. Eve is determined to maintain a professional relationship with Addie, but Art's warning has planted a seed of doubt in her mind.
Addie's struggles at school continue as she faces bullying from Kenzie and her friends in the cafeteria. Despite having an empty table to herself, Kenzie demands that Addie move, and when Addie resists, Kenzie and her friends take Addie's tray and textbook. Hudson, Addie's former friend, intervenes but fails to fully stand up for her, instead suggesting that Kenzie and her friends move to a different table. Addie, feeling defeated and hurt, decides to leave the table and the cafeteria, choosing not to engage with Kenzie and her friends. Meanwhile, Addie is looking forward to attending the first meeting of the school's poetry magazine, Reflections, which offers her a glimmer of hope and a chance to escape her troubles. However, her difficulties in math class and her reliance on her former teacher, Mr. Tuttle, who is no longer available to tutor her, continue to weigh on her mind.
Addie's day takes a significant turn as she encounters her former friend Hudson and his new girlfriend Kenzie, leading to a moment of impulsiveness where she steals Kenzie's house key. Despite the risk, Addie manages to get away with it and later attends the meeting for the school's poetry magazine, Reflections, where she meets the editor-in-chief, Lotus. Mr. Bennett praises Addie's poem and suggests it could be featured in the magazine, but Lotus is less welcoming, bringing up Addie's troubled past and her alleged involvement with Mr. Tuttle, a former teacher. Addie denies any wrongdoing, but Lotus's skepticism leaves her wondering if she's found a true friend or just another judgmental peer. Meanwhile, Addie finds solace in Mr. Bennett's enthusiasm and the possibility of pursuing her passion for poetry, giving her the confidence to stay at her current school despite her reputation and difficulties.
Eve's evening takes an unexpected turn when she decides to visit a shoe store, Simon's Shoes, after grading papers and telling her husband Nate that she's going out to dinner with a friend. At the store, she tries on a pair of Christian Louboutin pumps and is assisted by a charming salesman who seems to be flirting with her. As the store closes, the salesman's behavior becomes more aggressive, and he makes a move on Eve, grabbing her and kissing her. The encounter is intense and unexpected, leaving Eve's situation uncertain and potentially fraught with consequences. Meanwhile, Eve's thoughts are filled with reflections on her marriage to Nate, his lack of romantic interest in her, and her own desires and frustrations.
Eve's illicit affair with Jay, a shoe salesman, continues to be the highlight of her week, providing her with a much-needed escape from her loveless and unfulfilling marriage to Nate. As they sneak around, making love in the storeroom of Jay's shop, Eve is aware of the risks and the impermanence of their relationship, especially given Jay's own secrets and commitments. Despite this, she finds herself deeply invested in their weekly trysts, which have been going on for months. Jay's phone call from another woman, likely his partner, serves as a harsh reminder of the reality of their situation and the impossibility of their love being openly acknowledged. Nevertheless, Eve is willing to continue their affair, even as she acknowledges the potential for disaster and heartache that lies ahead.
Addie's life takes a significant turn as she becomes more involved with the school's poetry magazine, Reflections. Mr. Bennett, her English teacher, selects one of her poems to submit to a statewide poetry competition, which sparks a mix of emotions in Addie, from excitement and gratitude to self-doubt and uncertainty. As she navigates her relationships with her peers, particularly Lotus, the editor-in-chief of Reflections, Addie begins to confront the challenges of being part of a social group and the complexities of adult-student dynamics. Meanwhile, Addie's interactions with Mr. Bennett raise questions about his motivations and the potential consequences of their rapport, leaving Addie to wonder if his interest in her is genuine or driven by ulterior motives.
Eve's 30th birthday marks a milestone, but her life feels stagnant, particularly in her marriage to Nate. As she prepares for work, she secretly admires her hidden stash of expensive shoes, including a favorite pair of Louis Vuitton pumps. When she tries to initiate intimacy with Nate, he rejects her, leaving her feeling ashamed and unfulfilled. However, a text message from her illicit lover, Jay, brings a smile to her face, and they exchange brief, flirtatious messages on the Snapflash app. As Eve gets ready for work, she feels a sense of excitement and anticipation about Jay's promise to have something for her, which contrasts with the lack of enthusiasm or celebration from her husband.
Addie's day continues to unravel as she faces a series of challenges, including bullying from Kenzie and her friends, who steal her clothes and leave her to wear her sweaty gym attire to her next class. Despite her best efforts to navigate the situation, Addie is met with disappointment and frustration, particularly in her math class with Mrs. Bennett, where she is reprimanded for being late and having illegible homework due to her wet clothes. As Addie struggles to cope with the difficulties of her day, she finds herself at odds with her teachers and peers, leaving her feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Meanwhile, Addie's thoughts are filled with resentment towards her circumstances and a deep-seated desire to escape the troubles that seem to follow her.
Eve's 30th birthday continues to be uneventful and disappointing, with her husband Nate showing no interest in celebrating or being intimate with her. The only bright spot in her day is a text message from her lover Jay, who has promised her a gift. During her free period, Eve returns a phone call from her parents, with whom she has a strained and awkward relationship. They exchange polite but insincere conversation, with Eve's mother inquiring about her life and Nate, while also hinting at her desire for grandchildren. Eve is relieved when the call ends, feeling no closer to her parents and still carrying the emotional burden of their disapproval of her marriage to Nate. As she reflects on her life, Eve is forced to confront the reality of her unhappy marriage and the secrets she keeps from her family.
Addie's day continues to spiral out of control as she faces ridicule and humiliation at school due to her sweaty and smelly gym clothes. Her favorite teacher, Mr. Bennett, takes pity on her and excuses her from his class, allowing her to go home early. Despite feeling mortified, Addie is grateful for his kindness and decides to take a detour on her way home, stopping by the house of her tormentor, Kenzie Montgomery, whose house key she had stolen earlier. Addie's actions are driven by a mix of emotions, including frustration, desperation, and a desire for revenge, as she navigates the challenges of her difficult day and her troubled relationships with her peers.
Addie contemplates breaking into Kenzie's large and luxurious house after stealing her house key, but decides against it due to the risk of getting caught or facing an alarm system. Instead, she heads home, where her mother is waiting to take her to visit her father's grave at the cemetery. However, Addie is resistant to the idea, still harboring resentment towards her father, who was abusive and drunk throughout her childhood. She refuses to change out of her sweaty gym clothes, prompting an argument with her mother. Unexpectedly, her mother backs down, suggesting they skip the cemetery visit and go out to dinner instead. Addie is surprised by her mother's concession, and they make plans for a night out, providing a rare moment of connection and understanding between them.
Eve's 30th birthday dinner with her husband Nate is uneventful and disappointing, with Nate showing little interest in celebrating or being intimate with her. At the restaurant, they encounter one of Nate's students, Addie Severson, who is eating with her mother. Eve warns Nate to be careful around Addie, citing the controversy surrounding Art Tuttle, a former teacher who was accused of having an inappropriate relationship with Addie. Nate becomes defensive, suggesting that Eve is being overly cautious and that Addie is a talented and troubled student who needs guidance. The conversation highlights the tension and mistrust in Eve and Nate's marriage, as well as Eve's growing unease about Addie's presence in Nate's life. As they await their meal, Eve's thoughts turn to her plans to end her illicit affair with Jay and focus on repairing her marriage, but the encounter with Addie and Nate's reaction have left her feeling uncertain and concerned about the future.
Addie's evening takes a surprising turn when she encounters her English teacher, Mr. Bennett, at a restaurant where she is dining with her mother. Despite being in a public place, Addie finds herself drawn to Mr. Bennett and feels a sense of connection with him, particularly when they discuss her difficult day and the bullying she faced at school. Mr. Bennett assigns her a unique homework task, asking her to write an angry letter to the person who took her clothes, which sparks her imagination and desire for revenge. As they talk, Addie senses that Mr. Bennett is unhappy in his marriage to Mrs. Bennett, who is also a teacher at her school, and feels a pang of sympathy for him. The encounter leaves Addie feeling intrigued and curious about Mr. Bennett's life outside of school, and she begins to look forward to their next interaction.
Eve's 30th birthday ends on a disappointing note as her husband Nate shows no interest in celebrating or being intimate with her. However, her mood is lifted when she receives a surprise gift from her lover Jay, a pair of expensive shoes she had been admiring. As she exchanges messages with Jay on Snapflash, Eve is reminded of the unfairness of her situation, being stuck in a loveless marriage while having strong feelings for someone else. In a moment of excitement, Eve opens the front door, expecting to see Jay, but finds no one there, leaving her wondering if she imagined the noise that prompted her to open the door. The encounter highlights Eve's deepening emotional connection with Jay and her growing dissatisfaction with her marriage to Nate.
Addie's day takes a turn for the worse when she discovers that her locker has been broken into and filled with shaving cream, a prank seemingly orchestrated by her classmate Kenzie. The incident attracts a crowd of students, and Addie is humiliated as she tries to figure out how to clean up the mess. Mrs. Bennett, a strict teacher, intervenes and orders Addie to clean up the locker, but offers no assistance or sympathy. Hudson, Addie's former friend and now Kenzie's boyfriend, attempts to help Addie, but she declines, aware that Kenzie will retaliate if he interferes. As Hudson leaves to join Kenzie, Addie is left to deal with the aftermath of the prank, feeling isolated and bullied. The incident serves as a reminder of the complicated and often toxic social dynamics at play in Addie's high school, where alliances are forged and broken, and loyalty is a luxury few can afford. The chapter ends with a hint of a darker secret shared between Addie and Hudson, suggesting that their past is more complex and troubled than initially revealed.
Addie's day continues to be challenging as she deals with the aftermath of her locker being filled with shaving cream, a prank likely orchestrated by her classmate Kenzie. While cleaning up the mess, Addie reflects on her past and the events that led to her father's death, which she and her former friend Hudson were involved in. As she finishes cleaning her locker, Mr. Bennett, her English teacher, appears and offers to help her. After they work together to clean the locker, Mr. Bennett offers Addie a ride home on a rainy day, which she initially declines due to concerns about getting him in trouble. However, he reassures her that it's just a kind gesture and not a big deal, and she eventually accepts the ride.
Addie accepts a ride home from Mr. Bennett on a rainy day after her locker is filled with shaving cream as a prank. As they drive, they engage in a conversation that feels more like a dialogue between friends than a teacher and student. Mr. Bennett shares a poem he wrote as a child, and Addie opens up about her own experiences with poetry. Their conversation is easy and natural, and Addie finds herself feeling comfortable and happy in Mr. Bennett's presence. As they approach her house, Addie feels a sense of disappointment that the ride is over, and for a moment, she imagines a scenario where they are on a date. However, she quickly dismisses the thought as ridiculous. Mr. Bennett drops her off, and Addie thanks him again, feeling a sense of gratitude and connection with her teacher. As she runs into her house, she can't help but smile, feeling a sense of joy and closeness that she hasn't experienced in a long time.
Eve's illicit affair with Jay, a shoe salesman, continues as they spend time together at his store, trying on shoes and stealing moments of intimacy. Despite the thrills of their secret relationship, Eve is increasingly aware of the impossibility of their love and the guilt that comes with it, particularly with Jay's family obligations and her own marriage to Nate. As they part ways, Eve knows she needs to end things with Jay, but finds herself drawn to him again, and they make plans to meet the following week. Meanwhile, Eve's marriage to Nate remains loveless and unfulfilling, with Nate showing little interest in her or their relationship. As Eve returns home, she can't shake the feeling that someone is watching her, foreshadowing potential complications in her already tangled life.
Addie is struggling with her math midterm and considers cheating by looking at another student's test paper. Despite initial reservations, she decides to copy some answers, feeling that it's her only way to pass. However, her actions are noticed by her classmate Kenzie, who threatens to expose her to their teacher unless Addie agrees to perform a humiliating task in their English class. Addie is torn between her desire to avoid getting in trouble and her unwillingness to embarrass herself in front of her crush, Mr. Bennett. Meanwhile, Addie's past mistakes and secrets continue to haunt her, and she worries that her classmate Hudson may have revealed their shared secret to Kenzie, potentially leading to even more trouble.
Addie's day takes a turn for the worse when she receives a note from Mrs. Bennett, her math teacher, asking to see her immediately after her last period. Addie is worried that Kenzie has told Mrs. Bennett about her cheating on the math midterm. When Addie meets with Mrs. Bennett, she is confronted with the evidence of her cheating and is unable to deny it. Mrs. Bennett informs Addie that she will be discussing the matter with the principal the next morning, which fills Addie with dread. Addie is furious with Kenzie for telling Mrs. Bennett and feels that her life is spiraling out of control. She is worried about the consequences of her actions and the disappointment she will face from her mother and Mr. Bennett, her English teacher. Addie decides that she will no longer be a victim and plans to take action against Kenzie.
Eve returns home from school to find her husband Nate waiting for her, and they share a passionate and intimate moment, which is a rare occurrence in their marriage. Afterward, they discuss Addie Severson, a student who cheated on her math midterm, and Nate suggests that Eve should not report her to the principal, but instead give her a zero on the test and a warning. Eve agrees, despite initially wanting to report Addie's cheating. Meanwhile, Eve receives a message from her lover Jay, asking to see her the next night, and she agrees, highlighting the ongoing tension and conflict in her relationships with both Nate and Jay. The chapter explores Eve's complex emotions and the dynamics of her marriage, as well as her illicit affair with Jay, and raises questions about her priorities and loyalties.
Addie, still reeling from being caught cheating on her math midterm and facing potential expulsion, decides to take revenge on her tormentor Kenzie by breaking into her house. With Kenzie and her family away, Addie uses a stolen house key to gain entry and begins to snoop around, exploring the luxurious interior and discovering various personal items, including a love note from her former friend Hudson. As she rummages through Kenzie's room, Addie's emotions shift from anger to a sense of disillusionment, and she finds herself thinking about her English teacher, Mr. Bennett, and the connection they share. Addie's actions take a mischievous turn as she contemplates stealing some of Kenzie's clothes and breaks a ceramic bird on the floor. However, her solitude is disrupted by a sudden noise from downstairs, leaving her wondering if she's alone in the house after all.
Addie's plan to take revenge on Kenzie by breaking into her house takes a turn when she hears a noise downstairs, causing her to fear she's been caught. However, she soon discovers that the noise was made by Kenzie's cat, which had knocked over a pitcher of water. Relieved, Addie decides to leave the house, ditching the stolen keys in Kenzie's closet to avoid any further temptation. She sneaks out the back door, still anxious about the potential consequences of her actions, but grateful to have avoided detection. The close call serves as a wake-up call for Addie, making her realize the risks and stupidity of her actions, and she begins to reconsider her approach to dealing with Kenzie's bullying.
Eve decides not to report Addie's cheating to the principal, instead choosing to give her a zero on the midterm and offering her a chance to improve her grades with the help of peer tutors. Eve's decision is influenced by her husband Nate, who had persuaded her to show leniency towards Addie. Although Eve is willing to forgive Addie's mistake, she makes it clear that she will not tolerate any further incidents of cheating. Addie is grateful for the second chance and vows to turn her behavior around, but Eve remains skeptical and maintains a professional distance from the girl.
Addie's life takes a dramatic turn as she navigates her feelings for her English teacher, Mr. Bennett. After being caught cheating on her math midterm, Addie is surprised to find that Mrs. Bennett has decided not to report her to the principal, thanks to Mr. Bennett's intervention. At the meeting of the school's poetry magazine, Mr. Bennett praises Addie's new poem and they share a moment of connection. Later, when Addie returns to the classroom to talk to Mr. Bennett, they find themselves alone and their conversation turns intimate. Mr. Bennett reveals that he is attracted to Addie and has been trying to resist his feelings, but ultimately they share a kiss. Addie, who has never kissed anyone before, is swept up in the moment and feels a strong connection with Mr. Bennett. Despite the risks and impropriety of their relationship, they decide to pursue their feelings for each other, finding a secret hideaway in the school's old darkroom where they can be alone together.
Addie and Mr. Bennett, now referred to as Nathaniel, spend time together in the school's darkroom, where they share intimate moments and kisses. Nathaniel drives Addie home, and they discuss the risks and challenges of their relationship, given their significant age difference and Nathaniel's position as Addie's teacher. Nathaniel confides in Addie about his unhappy marriage to Eve and how Addie has inspired him to start writing poetry again. Addie promises to keep their relationship a secret, understanding the potential consequences if it is discovered. As they part ways, Addie feels a strong connection with Nathaniel and is determined to keep their secret safe, while also holding onto the hope that one day they can be together openly.
Eve is grading papers at home when her husband Nate suddenly becomes intimate with her, displaying an unusual amount of passion and desire. However, Eve is hesitant to reciprocate as she has plans to meet her lover Jay later that night. She tries to brush off Nate's advances, suggesting they can be intimate another time, but Nate becomes frustrated and storms off, leaving Eve confused and wondering what triggered this unexpected behavior from her normally unenthusiastic husband.
Addie's feelings for her English teacher, Mr. Bennett, continue to grow as they spend more time together in secret. At a meeting of the school's poetry magazine, Lotus critiques Addie's poem, calling it "sappy," which makes Addie unsure about sharing her writing with Mr. Bennett. However, when they meet in the darkroom, Mr. Bennett reveals that he has written a poem for Addie, expressing his gratitude for her presence in his life. As they grow closer, Mr. Bennett becomes more intimate with Addie, and she eventually loses her virginity to him in the darkroom. Despite the risks and impropriety of their relationship, Addie feels a deep connection with Mr. Bennett and is swept up in the romance of their secret meetings.
Addie is struggling to focus in her English class, as her mind is preoccupied with her secret relationship with her teacher, Mr. Bennett, also known as Nathaniel. She is excited to see him and can't wait for their daily meeting in the darkroom. However, her mood shifts when an announcement is made over the loudspeaker, revealing that Lotus, a classmate, has won a prestigious poetry contest that Nathaniel had entered Addie into. Addie is confused and upset, feeling that Nathaniel had lied to her. She confronts him about the situation, and he explains that Lotus had complained to the principal about Addie being a junior, and he didn't want to create a conflict of interest due to his feelings for Addie. Addie understands and forgives Nathaniel, and they share a romantic moment in the darkroom. As they spend more time together, Addie realizes how much she loves Nathaniel and how much he cares for her. She wishes that he wasn't married to Mrs. Bennett, as it would make their relationship easier and more straightforward. Addie's feelings for Nathaniel continue to grow, and she finds herself thinking about him constantly, writing poetry about him, and feeling a deep connection with him.
Addie's day is marked by bullying and humiliation at school, particularly at the hands of Kenzie, who spills her lunch on the floor and later reads a personal poem written by Addie's English teacher, Mr. Bennett. Despite the challenges, Addie receives an unexpected act of kindness from her former friend Hudson, who pays for her lunch. However, her relief is short-lived as she is denied the opportunity to eat in math class by Mrs. Bennett, Mr. Bennett's wife. Addie's frustration and hunger are compounded by her growing feelings for Mr. Bennett and her resentment towards Mrs. Bennett, who she perceives as cruel and unworthy of her husband's love. As Addie navigates her difficult day, she finds solace in the poem written by Mr. Bennett and the secret connection they share, which gives her the strength to cope with the challenges she faces.
Eve has a disappointing dinner with her friend Shelby and her husband, feeling like an outsider in their perfect life. After they leave, Eve takes out the trash and feels like someone is watching her, hearing a loud thump and seeing a figure lurking in the bushes. She runs back to her house, barely avoiding a potential attack, and catches a glimpse of the figure's face in the moonlight - it's Addie Severson, one of her husband's students. Eve is shocked and unsure of what Addie is doing outside her house, and the encounter leaves her feeling uneasy and frightened.
Eve is frantic after seeing Addie, one of her husband's students, lurking in the bushes outside their house. She tries to convince her husband Nate that Addie was indeed stalking her, but he is skeptical and defensive of the girl. Eve insists that she will report the incident to the principal, citing Addie's history of trouble and her own experiences with the girl's hostile behavior in class. However, Nate is reluctant to get Addie in trouble and instead tries to calm Eve down with a massage, which eventually leads to a romantic encounter. As they intimate, Nate reveals that he has been thinking about starting a family, which surprises Eve given his recent lack of interest in their relationship.
Addie is in trouble again, this time for being seen outside her English teacher Nathaniel's house, where he lives with his wife, Mrs. Bennett. Nathaniel warns Addie via text message that the principal will be speaking with her about the incident and advises her to deny everything. When Addie is called to the principal's office, she denies being outside Nathaniel's house, despite Mrs. Bennett's claims that she saw her. The principal seems skeptical but lacks proof, and Addie is let off with a warning. Addie reflects on her past mistakes, including being accused of having an inappropriate relationship with another teacher, Mr. Tuttle, and realizes that she needs to be more careful to avoid jeopardizing her secret relationship with Nathaniel. Meanwhile, Addie's feelings for Nathaniel continue to grow, and she is desperate to keep their relationship a secret, even if it means denying the truth to those around her.
Addie is struggling to cope with the consequences of being caught outside her English teacher Nathaniel's house, and the principal's warning has put their secret relationship at risk. Despite Nathaniel's initial frustration and concern, he reassures Addie that he doesn't hate her and that they are soulmates. However, they agree to be more cautious and limit their interactions, including not meeting in person for a week. Addie is devastated by the separation but finds comfort in their passionate kiss in Nathaniel's classroom. They plan to continue communicating through Snapflash, and Addie becomes increasingly resentful of Nathaniel's wife, Eve, who she blames for their situation. As Addie navigates her feelings and the challenges of their secret relationship, she remains determined to be with Nathaniel andmake their love work.
Eve is convinced that Addie Severson, one of her husband's students, was lurking outside their house, but Addie denies it when questioned by the principal. Eve is frustrated and suspicious, and her concerns are further heightened when she discusses the situation with her friend Shelby. Eve begins to suspect that Addie may be stalking her husband, Nate, rather than her, and this suspicion is confirmed when she sees Nate and Addie together in his classroom, engaging in a romantic and intimate encounter. Eve discovers that her husband is having an affair with Addie, and this revelation explains many of the strange occurrences and Nate's behavior towards Addie. Eve is shocked, hurt, and angry, and her world is turned upside down by this discovery.
Eve discovers her husband Nate having an intimate encounter with his 16-year-old student Addie in his classroom. Despite feeling angry and hurt, Eve decides not to confront them immediately, recognizing that exposing Nate's affair would ruin not only his life but also hers and Addie's. Instead, she takes a photo as evidence and assigns her math class a lengthy worksheet, trying to compose herself. She then reaches out to her lover Jay, asking to meet him that night to discuss the situation and figure out what to do next. Eve is determined to hold Nate accountable for his actions but wants to do so in a way that minimizes the damage to her own life and reputation.
Eve meets with her lover Jay in a parking lot and breaks down in tears as she tells him about catching her husband Nate kissing his 16-year-old student Addie in his classroom. Jay is furious and suggests that Eve should give Nate an ultimatum to stop the affair and threatens to leave him if it continues. He also encourages Eve to leave the marriage, citing that it's not worth staying in a relationship where Nate is willing to risk everything for an affair with a student. Eve considers Jay's advice and realizes that she can't stay with Nate anymore, but she's unsure of what the future holds, including the possibility of being with Jay. Despite Jay's confidence in her ability to handle the situation, Eve is aware of the challenges and potential consequences of confronting Nate and ending their marriage.
Eve confronts her husband Nate about his affair with his 16-year-old student Addie, after catching them kissing in his classroom. Nate initially tries to downplay the situation, but eventually admits to his mistake. Eve demands a divorce, that Nate ends his relationship with Addie, and that he resigns from his teaching position at the high school. Nate is reluctant to resign, but Eve reveals that she has photographic evidence of his affair, which forces him to agree to her demands. As their conversation escalates, Nate's true character is revealed, and Eve realizes that he has been emotionally abusive and manipulative throughout their marriage. In the end, Nate packs his bags and leaves the house, marking the end of their marriage.
Addie receives a message from her English teacher, Nathaniel, informing her that his wife, Eve, knows about their secret relationship. Nathaniel tells Addie that he can't see her again and that Eve is demanding he end their relationship and resign from his teaching position. Addie is devastated and tries to convince Nathaniel to reconsider, but he refuses, citing the risk of Eve exposing their relationship to the principal. Addie's mother leaves for an overnight shift at the hospital, and Addie tries to persuade Nathaniel to come over, but he declines, saying he can't take the risk. Addie is heartbroken and feels that their love is being unfairly destroyed by Eve's actions. She becomes consumed by her emotions, feeling a deep pain and sense of injustice, and begins to think about the possibilities of being with Nathaniel if Eve were no longer in the picture.
Addie is consumed by grief and anger after being told by her English teacher, Nathaniel, that he can no longer see her due to his wife, Eve, discovering their secret relationship. Addie tries to cope with her emotions by eating ice cream, but it brings her little comfort. She begins to feel an overwhelming sense of hate towards Eve, who she blames for ruining her chance at happiness with Nathaniel. Addie considers trying to reason with Eve, hoping to explain that her relationship with Nathaniel is genuine and not exploitative. Despite initially dismissing the idea of harming Eve, Addie's emotions and desire to be with Nathaniel lead her to entertain darker thoughts, revealing a complex and troubled mentality.
Eve's day after discovering her husband's infidelity and kicking him out is marked by a sense of surrealness and uncertainty. She spends the evening drinking and watching a movie, but her attempts to relax are disrupted by strange noises in the house, which she initially thinks might be her imagination. However, as the noises persist and she hears footsteps and a girl swearing in the kitchen, Eve realizes that someone is indeed in her house. She searches for her phone to call 911 but can't find it, and her reluctance to leave the house or approach the kitchen leaves her feeling trapped and unsure of what to do next. Just as she's trying to decide on a course of action, she hears the voice of her husband's student, Addie, swearing in the kitchen, leaving Eve stunned and wondering what Addie is doing in her house.
Eve confronts Addie, who has broken into her kitchen, about her affair with Nate. Eve tries to reason with Addie, explaining that Nate is taking advantage of her and that their relationship is inappropriate. However, Addie is brainwashed and refuses to listen, becoming increasingly hysterical. Eve realizes that she needs to involve the principal and Addie's mother to put an end to the affair, but Addie becomes violent and hits Eve on the head with a frying pan, knocking her unconscious.
Addie's emotions escalate as she confronts Eve about her affair with Nathaniel, and in a fit of rage, she hits Eve on the head with a frying pan, knocking her unconscious. As Eve lies unresponsive on the floor, Addie realizes the severity of her actions and fears she may have killed her. Desperate for help, Addie uses Eve's phone to call Nathaniel, reaching out to him for assistance and guidance on what to do next. Nathaniel agrees to come home, and Addie awaits his arrival, hoping he can help her mitigate the consequences of her violent outburst. Meanwhile, Addie's thoughts are consumed by the gravity of her actions, and she struggles to come to terms with the possibility that she may have committed a fatal crime.
Addie is consumed by guilt and fear after hitting her teacher, Mrs. Bennett, with a frying pan, and is unsure if she has killed her. When Nathaniel, Mrs. Bennett's husband and Addie's lover, arrives, he finds Mrs. Bennett unresponsive on the floor. Addie confesses to hitting her, and Nathaniel checks if she's breathing, but finds no sign of life. He then deletes any incriminating photos of their affair from Mrs. Bennett's phone and begins to devise a plan to cover their tracks, suggesting they make it look like Mrs. Bennett left to visit her family in New Jersey and bury her body in a secluded location. Addie is hesitant, but Nathaniel's determination to protect her and their relationship ultimately convinces her to go along with his plan, and she agrees to help him wrap Mrs. Bennett's body in a sheet and dispose of it.
Eve regains consciousness on the kitchen floor, confused and disoriented, with a severe headache and blood on her scalp. She remembers being hit by Addie with a frying pan and tries to sit up, but her head spins. Nate, her husband, is standing over her, holding her phone and refusing to call 911. He's angry and desperate, begging her not to report Addie's behavior to the principal, and when Eve insists it's the right thing to do, Nate's anger boils over. In a shocking turn of events, Nate wraps his hands around Eve's neck, tightening his grip and choking her, determined to silence her and protect his reputation. As Eve's vision fades to black, she realizes her husband is willing to kill her to keep his secret safe.
Addie is consumed by the aftermath of killing her English teacher's wife, Eve, and is now helping her lover, Nathaniel, to dispose of the body. As they prepare to wrap Eve's body in a sheet, Addie notices dark red marks on Eve's neck that resemble finger marks, which Nathaniel attributes to an unknown cause. Despite her reservations, Addie agrees to help Nathaniel cover up the crime, and they share a kiss as he reassures her that they will be happy together once the situation is resolved. However, Addie's feelings of guilt and unease persist, and she is torn between her loyalty to Nathaniel and her desire to do the right thing. As they proceed with their plan, Addie is instructed by Nathaniel to deny everything if the police come, and she is determined to follow his instructions in order to be with him.
Nate reflects on his actions and justifies killing his wife, Eve, by blaming her for threatening his livelihood and career. He and Addie, his lover and student, work together to cover up the crime, with Addie still believing she was the one who killed Eve. They transport Eve's body to a deserted area, where Nate plans to bury her, using a story about Eve leaving to visit her family in New Jersey as a decoy. As they prepare to dispose of the body, Nate's thoughts are filled with satisfaction and relief, while Addie is consumed by guilt and uncertainty. Nate's true nature is revealed, showing him to be manipulative, calculating, and willing to do whatever it takes to protect himself and his relationship with Addie.
Addie and Nathaniel, her English teacher and lover, are in a deserted pumpkin patch, digging a grave for his wife, Eve, who Addie had hit on the head with a frying pan. As they dig, Addie notices red marks on Eve's neck that resemble finger marks, and she begins to suspect that Nathaniel might have strangled his wife to death. Nathaniel denies it, but Addie is unsure and feels a sense of unease and fear. Despite her reservations, Addie continues to help Nathaniel dig the grave, and they eventually finish it. As Nathaniel leaves to retrieve Eve's purse from the car, Addie is left alone in the grave, feeling scared and uncertain about what will happen next. Nathaniel reminds her to deny everything if the police come, and Addie is torn between her loyalty to him and her desire to tell the truth.
Addie is left alone in a deserted pumpkin patch after Nathaniel, her English teacher and lover, disappears while they are disposing of his wife Eve's body. Addie is forced to complete the task on her own, using leaves to cover the grave and making it less noticeable. She then tries to find her way back, following tire tracks that lead her to the main road. With no other options, Addie reaches out to her former friend Hudson for help, calling him at 3 am and asking him to pick her up. Despite the risks and potential consequences, Hudson agrees to come and get her, and Addie waits anxiously for his arrival, unsure of what the future holds.
Addie is picked up by her former friend Hudson in the middle of the night after a traumatic event. She is reluctant to tell him what happened, despite his offer to listen and help. Hudson notices Addie's disheveled state and driving her home, they remain largely silent. Addie asks Hudson to keep their meeting a secret, fearing that if anyone finds out, it could lead to trouble. Hudson agrees to keep the secret and reassures Addie that he is there for her if she needs him, acknowledging that their past friendship has been strained. As they part ways, Addie is left to deal with the aftermath of her actions, and the possibility of Mrs. Bennett's disappearance becoming public knowledge looms large.
Nate wakes up to find his wife Eve missing from their bed, and he feels a sense of relief, knowing that he has solved the problem of her threatening to expose his affair with his student Addie. He recalls the events of the previous night, when Addie called him for help after hitting Eve with a frying pan, and how he took care of the situation by disposing of Eve's body and deleting the incriminating photos from her phone. Nate is confident that he has covered his tracks and that there is no proof of his connection to Addie or his involvement in Eve's disappearance. He takes a shower, finding a pair of Eve's expensive shoes in the bathtub, which he decides to keep and potentially sell. As he gets ready for the day, he hears a strange tapping sound outside the bathroom door, but dismisses it as his imagination playing tricks on him. With Eve out of the way, Nate feels free to move on with his life, and he plans to call the police to report her missing, pretending to be concerned about her disappearance.
Addie is struggling to cope with the aftermath of Mrs. Bennett's death and the events that transpired in the pumpkin patch. She lies awake at night, haunted by the image of Mrs. Bennett's body and the red marks around her neck. Addie's mother returns home, but Addie pretends to be asleep, unable to face her. She receives a message from Hudson, asking if she's okay, but she doesn't respond. Addie tries to contact Nathaniel through Snapflash, but his account no longer exists, leaving her feeling panicked and unsure of what's happening. She rationalizes that Nathaniel deleted his account to cover their tracks and avoid incrimination. Despite her reservations, Addie decides not to delete her own Snapflash account, holding onto the hope that Nathaniel might need to contact her again. As she navigates her day, Addie is reminded of Nathaniel's instructions to deny everything, and she must come to terms with the gravity of their situation and the potential consequences of their actions.
Nate, who has killed his wife Eve and buried her body, reports her missing to the police, playing the role of a concerned husband. Detective Sprague arrives to investigate, and Nate spins a story about Eve planning a surprise trip to visit her parents in New Jersey. However, the detective reveals that Eve's car was found at the commuter rail station, and her tickets were never scanned. Nate pretends to be distraught, suggesting that Eve might have been attacked at the station. When asked about his relationship with Eve, Nate claims they have a happy marriage and are trying to have a baby. He also mentions a student, Adeline Severson, who had a grudge against Eve and had been lurking outside their home. Nate provides a handwritten note from Adeline as evidence, trying to shift the suspicion towards her. The detective decides to pay Adeline a visit and asks to look around the house, during which she finds something on the kitchen floor that catches her attention, leaving Nate's fate uncertain.
Nate is trying to cover up the disappearance of his wife Eve, but things take a turn when Detective Sprague finds a pair of Eve's expensive shoes in the kitchen with dirt and pumpkin on them. Nate is unsure how the shoes got there and who could have put them there, but he suspects it might be Addie, the student he is having an affair with, or possibly someone Eve was having an affair with who is seeking revenge. As Nate tries to clean up the shoes and process what is happening, he becomes increasingly uneasy and realizes that someone is trying to frighten him and possibly expose his secrets. Despite his fears, Nate is determined to keep his upper hand and avoid getting caught, but the discovery of the shoes has thrown a wrench into his plans and raised more questions about what really happened to Eve.
Addie is questioned by Detective Sprague about the disappearance of her math teacher, Eve Bennett. Addie denies any involvement and claims she was home all night, but the detective finds a letter Addie wrote expressing anger towards someone, which Addie claims was just an assignment for English class. The detective also discovers that Addie has access to a car, despite not having a driver's license. As the questioning continues, Addie becomes increasingly uneasy and starts to suspect that her English teacher, Nathaniel, may be setting her up to take the fall for his wife's murder. The detective's questions and tone suggest that she is not convinced of Addie's innocence, and Addie's mother is worried about her daughter's potential involvement in the disappearance. The chapter ends with the detective asking Addie to come down to the station for further questioning, leaving Addie feeling anxious and unsure of what will happen next.
Addie's mother questions her about the disappearance of Mrs. Bennett after Detective Sprague's visit, but Addie denies any involvement and sticks to her story of being home all night. However, when her mother discovers that their old car still works, Addie's alibi is compromised. Addie's mother presses her for the truth, but Addie continues to lie, unsure of what would happen if she revealed her secrets, including her affair with Nathaniel and her role in Mrs. Bennett's disappearance. As the tension builds, Addie is left to wonder what her mother would do if she knew the truth, and she realizes that it will ultimately be Nathaniel's word against hers if the truth comes out.
Nate receives a call from Detective Sprague, who updates him on the investigation into his wife Eve's disappearance. The detective believes Addie, Nate's student and lover, is involved and plans to question her again. Nate is confident that Addie will take the fall for Eve's murder and that he has covered his tracks. However, his confidence is shaken when he receives a mysterious package containing a pair of women's shoes with dirty soles, similar to the ones Eve wore. Nate is unsure who could have sent the package, but he suspects it might be someone who knows about his affair with Addie and is trying to taunt him. He tries to call out to Addie and Eve, but there is only silence. The chapter ends with Nate feeling uneasy and uncertain about what will happen next.
Nate is struggling to cope with the aftermath of his wife Eve's disappearance, and his sleep is filled with nightmares. Detective Sprague visits him again, and he tries to maintain his composure, but she notices his disheveled appearance. She reveals that she has spoken to Addie's mother and is aware that Addie is one of Nate's students, which he had previously failed to mention. The detective's questions become more probing, and Nate starts to feel uneasy, realizing that she is suspicious of him. He denies any extramarital affairs, but the detective's tone suggests that she doesn't believe him. As the conversation ends, Nate is left feeling anxious and worried that the detective is getting closer to the truth.
Addie is approached by Detective Sprague while walking alone in the rain, and the detective asks to speak with her off the record about Eve Bennett's disappearance. Detective Sprague reveals that she knows Addie was in Nathaniel Bennett's English class and poetry magazine, and asks if there was anything going on between Addie and Nathaniel. Addie denies any relationship, despite the detective's assurances that it's not Addie's fault if Nathaniel initiated something. The detective warns Addie that Nathaniel is trying to portray her as a stalker who acted alone in Eve's disappearance, and encourages Addie to speak out for herself. Detective Sprague leaves Addie her card with her cell phone number, in case Addie wants to talk. Addie is left wondering if Nathaniel would really betray her, and is torn between her loyalty to him and her growing doubts.
Addie returns home after a walk in the rain, where she was approached by Detective Sprague who asked her about her relationship with Nathaniel Bennett. Addie's mom is worried about the accusations against her and asks if she knows what happened to Mrs. Bennett, but Addie denies any involvement. Just as Addie is about to open up to her mom, the doorbell rings, interrupting their conversation. To Addie's surprise, it's Kenzie Montgomery, her classmate and bully, standing at the door.
Addie's day takes a surprising turn when her classmate and bully, Kenzie Montgomery, shows up at her front door, drenched from the rain and looking unlike her usual self. Kenzie apologizes for her behavior towards Addie throughout the semester and reveals that she knows about Addie's secret relationship with Mr. Bennett, their English teacher. Kenzie claims to have discovered their affair through a poem that Mr. Bennett wrote, which Addie had in her notebook. However, Kenzie drops a bombshell by stating that the poem was actually written for her, not Addie. This revelation leaves Addie stunned and uncertain about the true nature of her relationship with Mr. Bennett.
Addie's world is turned upside down when her classmate and bully, Kenzie, reveals that she had a secret relationship with their English teacher, Mr. Bennett, who is also Addie's lover. Kenzie claims that Mr. Bennett wrote a poem for her two years ago, and that he told her she was his soulmate, just as he had told Addie. Kenzie also reveals that she has screenshots of their conversations on Snapflash, which could serve as proof of their relationship. Addie is shocked and unsure of what to believe, but Kenzie's words and evidence make her question everything she thought she knew about Mr. Bennett. Kenzie asks Addie to join her in going to the police to report Mr. Bennett's actions, and after some hesitation, Addie agrees. With Kenzie's evidence and Addie's own experiences, they may finally be able to expose Mr. Bennett's true nature and bring him to justice.
Addie and Kenzie go to the police station to report Nathaniel Bennett's actions, and Addie confesses to having an affair with him. Kenzie reveals that she also had a relationship with Nathaniel when she was 14, and Addie realizes the extent of Nathaniel's abuse of power. With Detective Sprague's guidance, Addie begins to tell the truth about what happened to Eve Bennett, including her involvement in burying the body. Addie and Kenzie join forces to bring Nathaniel to justice, and Addie finally starts to open up about the events that have haunted her.
Nate receives a call from Detective Sprague, who informs him that she needs to speak with him as soon as possible and is sending a patrol car to pick him up. Nate is anxious and worried, wondering if Addie or Kenzie has gone to the police about their relationships with him. When he returns home, he finds a rotting jack-o'-lantern in his kitchen, which seems to be a sinister message. A black bird suddenly emerges from the pumpkin, causing Nate to startle and become even more distressed. Nate is convinced that someone is trying to frame him and is determined to get out of the house, but his situation is becoming increasingly dire.
Nate receives a call from Detective Sprague, who instructs him to stay at home, but he decides to leave and drive to the pumpkin patch where he and Addie buried Eve's body. He is determined to prove to himself that Eve is truly dead and buried, and to find evidence that will clear his name. As he arrives at the patch, he finds that the grave is empty, and he is left stunned and kneeling in the mud. Just as he is trying to process what he has found, he is hit on the back of the head and loses consciousness.
Eve, the narrator, finds herself buried alive in a pumpkin patch, wrapped in a sheet and covered with dirt and leaves. She remembers being choked by her husband Nate and hitting her head, but doesn't know how she ended up in the patch. As she tries to escape, she realizes that her husband and his lover, Addie, must have buried her, intending for her to die. After a painful and terrifying experience, Eve managed to free herself from the grave and emerges from the pumpkin patch, determined to make Nate pay for his actions. She finds her purse, which was buried with her, and uses her phone to try and find help, despite having no service. Eve is resolute in her desire for revenge against her husband and sets out to walk to civilization, planning to expose Nate's crimes and bring him to justice.
Eve, after being buried alive by her husband Nate and his lover Addie, manages to escape and seeks help from her lover Jay. She meets him at his shoe store, where he provides her with warm clothing and shoes. Eve reveals to Jay that Nate tried to kill her and bury her in the dirt, but she survived and wants to make sure he pays for his actions. Jay agrees to help Eve, offering her a place to stay in his tool shed and assisting her with her plan to take revenge on Nate. Eve is determined to make Nate pay for his crimes, and with Jay's help, she begins to set her plan in motion.
Eve and Jay continue to torment Nate, who is now bound and gagged in a grave. Eve reveals that she intends to bury him alive, and despite Jay's reservations, they begin to fill the grave with dirt. As Nate begs and screams for mercy, Eve and Jay continue to bury him, eventually silencing him. With the grave filled, Eve recites a poem that Nate once wrote for her, highlighting the twisted and dark nature of their relationship. The chapter ends with Eve and Jay having successfully buried Nate, bringing an end to his abusive and manipulative behavior.