Chapter 93 of All the Colors of the Dark begins with Franklin Meyer handing Patch a crystal glass of brandy and leading him out to a stone terrace. The tranquil evening is marked by a gardener at work, the sound of a distant fountain, and the sweet fragrance of lavender filling the air. The path winding through trees is softly lit by flickering lanterns as the sun sets, creating a serene and peaceful setting. As they settle at a smoked glass table, Franklin remarks on the significance of the evening, while Patch, dressed in a navy suit borrowed from Sammy, prepares for the senior prom of Misty, Franklin’s daughter. A photographer stands nearby, ready to capture the magical moments of the night. Franklin briefly reminisces about Misty’s new boyfriend, comparing him to the characters from Grease, a reference Patch has become all too familiar with due to Misty’s enthusiastic singing. The tone of the evening is light and nostalgic, but it subtly hints at deeper undercurrents that run through the interactions.

The conversation shifts as Franklin talks about Patch’s work at Bell Lewis, where the long shifts leave him physically exhausted. Franklin’s tone carries a sense of pride tempered by concern as he reflects on Misty, expressing how much she means to him, especially as he recalls their dream of having another child, a wish that was never fulfilled. The prospect of Misty’s impending departure for Harvard weighs heavily on their conversation, highlighting the emotional conflict Franklin feels. It’s clear that while he supports his daughter’s ambitions, the idea of her leaving signals a painful transition for both him and his family. Patch perceives the deep bond between Franklin and Misty, but he also senses the looming separation that will soon become a reality. This moment underscores the complexity of familial love and the inevitable shifts that occur as children grow and move toward their own futures. The tension between support and separation is palpable, adding layers of emotion to the conversation.

Franklin then brings up the idea of guiding their children to aim for something more in life, urging them not to repeat past mistakes. His hopes for Misty are clear—he wants her to grow beyond their affluent background, not allowing it to define her or limit her aspirations. Patch listens attentively, acknowledging Franklin’s sentiment but unsure if words can truly make a difference at this point in their lives. The conversation reveals Franklin’s internal conflict and his desire to see his daughter succeed, yet it also highlights the complicated relationship they share. Patch, moved by the exchange, quietly promises to talk to Misty, though he is unsure of how his words might impact her. The chapter reflects the complexities of relationships between parents and children, especially when the future looms large and choices must be made about the paths they will take. Franklin’s concerns reflect the universal fears parents have for their children, as they navigate the balance between love, hope, and the reality of independence.

As night falls, the moment arrives for Misty to make her entrance, descending the grand staircase in a beautiful yellow gown, her hairband matching the color of her dress. The sight is nothing short of magical, and Patch, transfixed by her beauty, is deeply moved by her radiant smile. Despite the tensions and underlying conflicts, there is a sense of warmth and connection between them. With her parents present, Misty affectionately compliments Patch, their shared bond palpable in the air, their love intense and undeniable. In that moment, amidst the glow of the evening, their relationship feels both fragile and profound, marked by the challenges they face yet also by their deep affection for each other. The emotional complexity of their connection is clear—though their relationship might be unsustainable due to their differences, it remains something uniquely cherished. This moment crystallizes the delicate balance of youth, love, and the inevitable changes that will come. The chapter closes with a bittersweet understanding that while their love is genuine, it may not withstand the trials ahead.