Chapter 107 of All the Colors of the Dark follows Saint as she watches Jimmy asleep on her grandmother’s porch, wrapped in his jacket. The image of him, relaxed and unguarded, contrasts with the restlessness she feels inside. Earlier, she had met him after their missed prom, a moment that brought back memories of him in his suit, carefully chosen by his mother, a subtle but poignant detail. Jimmy embodies the qualities of a good man, one raised with solid family values, his knowledge of nature and traditional beliefs rooted deeply in his upbringing. Yet, despite the strength and wisdom he possesses, his childhood room—well-kept and orderly—reflects the kind of life he has led, one that requires nurturing and guidance to evolve further as he matures. Saint observes this and, in her quiet reflection, recognizes that Jimmy is someone who, despite his grounded values, may still be searching for his place in the world.

As Saint shares a meal with her grandmother, Norma, they dive into a deeper conversation about the roles of men and women. Norma, with her wisdom shaped by years of experience, asserts that women have a vital role in teaching men how to be men, opening up a discussion on the different male figures in their lives. The conversation touches upon Joseph, who struggles with emotional connections, and Saint’s own relationship with Jimmy, which, despite its innocence, has complicated layers. Jimmy’s steadfast belief in no premarital sex and his adherence to his faith create a subtle tension between him and Saint, especially as their relationship deepens. Saint, while desiring intimacy, is confronted with Jimmy’s strict moral compass, which creates doubts in her mind about how far she is willing to go for the sake of their love. This contrast between her growing desires and his firm beliefs challenges her sense of self, leaving her in an emotional conflict about what she truly wants from their relationship.

The chapter pivots when Norma reveals that Jimmy had formally asked for Saint’s hand in marriage. The news strikes a chord with Saint, prompting her to reflect on her own emotions and her readiness for such a commitment. Her heart swells with both affection and uncertainty as she thinks about the complexity of her bond with Jimmy. The themes of sin, judgment, and fate weave through her thoughts, stirring a deeper empathy for others she has encountered in her life. She begins to worry about the choices others have made and the consequences they’ve faced, which only adds to her sense of internal turmoil. The pressures of making the right decision about love and commitment weigh heavily on her, and she is forced to confront what her future with Jimmy might look like. Despite her emotional struggles, Saint finds herself wrestling with the idea of judgment—both from others and within herself—and how it might impact her relationship with him.

Norma, in her usual gentle but firm manner, offers wisdom on the nature of love and marriage. She advises that love is not always about passionate emotions but about respect, kindness, and the mutual understanding that comes with time. Saint, unsure of her feelings for Jimmy, listens as her grandmother encourages her to see love as a gradual process—something that evolves over time rather than a sudden revelation. The conversation with Norma provides clarity, reminding Saint that a lasting marriage is grounded in respect and a shared journey, not just immediate emotional satisfaction. Saint begins to understand that while love may not always feel intense, it is built on a foundation of trust, kindness, and commitment. This realization softens her doubts and offers a sense of peace as she contemplates her future with Jimmy.

Saint’s emotional turmoil intensifies as she contemplates her responsibilities toward others, her feelings for Jimmy, and the uncertain future that lies ahead. She feels the weight of the choices before her, each decision carrying consequences for both her and the people she loves. The chapter explores the complexity of love, the struggles that come with balancing personal desires with the obligations of relationships, and the uncertainties that accompany commitment. Saint is torn between the desire for independence and the pull of her love for Jimmy, uncertain about whether she is truly ready to make the sacrifices marriage requires. As she considers the gravity of her choices, she is forced to confront her own fears and desires, questioning whether she can truly balance the expectations of those around her with her own aspirations.

The themes of love, fate, and personal growth permeate this chapter, offering readers a deep dive into the complexities of Saint’s emotional journey. As she navigates her relationship with Jimmy and contemplates her future, she is challenged to reflect on what makes a relationship truly meaningful. Her internal struggle with her feelings for him, combined with her desire for independence, creates a tension that is both relatable and thought-provoking. The wisdom shared by Norma offers a grounding perspective, helping Saint realize that love is not a fixed emotion but an evolving bond that deepens over time. The chapter ultimately encourages readers to reflect on their own relationships and the foundations that make them strong, whether rooted in passion, respect, or a combination of both. The bittersweet reality of Saint’s inner conflict is a poignant reminder that love requires patience, growth, and a willingness to compromise, making it a central theme in this emotionally charged chapter.