Heartless

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death and sexual content.

As they sit in bed together, Cade and Willa talk about Cade’s childhood. Cade tries to focus on the conversation instead of contemplating his attraction to Willa. He delves into his mother’s death and describes how he responded to it. Then, Willa talks about her childhood, admitting that she hasn’t changed much. She also berates herself for being immature. Cade insists that she shouldn’t talk about herself that way and lists all the good things about her. Willa makes another joke about them having sex, insisting that they are going to have to discuss their feelings for each other because their relationship isn’t going to end after the summer; Willa is always going to be a part of Cade’s life because of Summer and Rhett. Cade realizes that she is right. After he says goodnight, Cade acknowledges to himself that he is afraid to become romantically involved with Willa.

That weekend, Cade, Willa, and Luke drive to the rodeo together. On the way, Cade reflects on his and Willa’s recent conversation, still convinced that their relationship cannot go any further. However, he cannot help but feel happy when he sees her with Luke.