Chapter Forty-three

Summary

• The chapter takes place a few weeks later, after lunch, at Sam's new flat in Muswell Hill.
• Maddie appreciates the tidiness of Sam's kitchen and already knows he keeps green tea for her in the cupboard.
• They share a large doughnut from the farmers market, in a sixty-forty split favoring Maddie.
• While Sam cleans up, Maddie suggests they have sex, prompted by a recent dinner with friends and a reminder that couples engage in sex.
• Sam asks Maddie if she actually wants to have sex; Maddie admits that she wants to but finds sex painful and distant.
• They discuss Maddie's sexual experiences and discomforts, and Sam offers suggestions and support.
• They go to Sam's bedroom, undress slowly, and he is gentle and considerate with Maddie throughout their intimate moments.
• Maddie experiences pleasure through oral sex, something new and incredible for her.
• The chapter includes a detailed description of their physical intimacy and Maddie's internal thoughts about the experience.
• They eventually have penetrative sex, which starts with pain for Maddie but turns pleasurable.
• Maddie feels an emotional connection and love for Sam during their encounter.
• The sexual experience ends with shared satisfaction and an indication of Maddie's deep feelings for Sam.
• The chapter closes with an email from Leigh to Evangelina indicating they did not get the book deal they hoped for, but the agent sees potential in the work and invites further submission once the manuscript is ready.