26. The Boat Ashore
Summary
- In 1965, Chase pulls into Kya’s lagoon nearly every day after work and they explore the oak-lined channels together. Chase mainly views the marsh as a thing to use for boating, fishing, and farming.
- Chase is intrigued by Kya’s knowledge of the marshlife but has no interest in it himself. He mocks her for studying the environment, believing the only important thing is knowing where to fish.
- Kya takes joy in knowing she will see Chase again soon, but also spots Tate, an old love, in the marsh. Seeing him makes her remember her first love and sadness washes over her. She rowed back to where she came from without speaking to him.
- Chase and Kya spend a lot of time together in the marsh and by the sea. Chase doesn't take Kya into town and they have not been physical beyond holding hands.
- One night, Chase asks if he can kiss Kya. She allows him to and they spend the night huddled on the beach together under a blanket.
- Tate goes looking for Kya to tell her he still loves her, but instead he finds her with Chase. Tate watches them from afar, full of regret and jealousy.
- Kya enjoys Chase's company and begins to daydream about a future with him. However, she always becomes tongue-tied when trying to ask him when he will introduce her to his friends and parents.
- Chase tries to initiate sex with Kya but she stops him, expressing her fear of him leaving her. He reassures her he is falling in love with her and promises they will have sex soon.
- Kya has an encounter with Chase’s parents, Sam and Patti Love. They have no desire to speak with her or acknowledge her relationship with their son.
- Chase promises Kya that she will meet his parents soon after she expresses her concerns over never having met them and them knowing about their relationship. Despite his assurances, she remains doubtful.