Chapter 15 opens during Lila’s bachelorette party, held in a luxurious spa that begins with a “water journey,” a term that Marla finds off-putting. As the group immerses themselves in the tranquil spa environment, they share playful banter about topics like nudity, relationships, and the role of social media, which is sparked by Phoebe’s humorous comments on healing and sexting. Each of the women engages with different pools, each seeking their own personal path to relaxation while revealing subtle glimpses of their lives. This setting offers a rare opportunity for the characters to relax and reflect, but their individual struggles remain present beneath the surface. Their discussions, though lighthearted, hint at deeper emotions and concerns, including those related to relationships, identity, and self-acceptance. The spa day thus serves as a backdrop for exploring the complex nature of each character’s inner world, their desires, and the challenges they face.

Amid the relaxation, Lila is burdened with anxiety over marrying Gary, especially regarding his traditional beliefs about their wedding, which conflicts with her own personal views. The thought of having a church wedding, something that Gary insists upon, feels increasingly alien to Lila, who has her own beliefs and desires for what her marriage should look like. Phoebe, acting as a source of comfort, encourages Lila to breathe deeply and let go of the mounting pressure, helping her manage her anxiety amidst the growing family expectations. Despite Phoebe’s calming presence, the peace of the day is broken when Jim, with his usual flair for dramatic flair, arrives with gossip about a vintage car being “fucked.” This shocking statement causes confusion and disarray among the group, with Lila particularly thrown by the audacity of the remark, which only serves to heighten her already fragile state of mind. The moment shifts from calm reflection to chaotic distraction, underlining the tension between personal desires and external pressures.

Later, as the women regroup to celebrate and unwind, their conversations dive into more complex topics about relationships, intimacy, and their internal struggles. They discuss the challenges of marriage, sharing their hopes and anxieties about commitment and the changes it will bring. Marla, in particular, reflects on her own shortcomings in her marriage, and through an emotional bond with Phoebe, they share their respective battles with love, understanding, and maintaining a sense of self. These conversations offer an honest look into the women’s fears and hopes, emphasizing how much they all grapple with the idea of love, fidelity, and personal growth. Each woman reveals a part of herself that is struggling with the expectations of others, both in their romantic lives and in society. These candid discussions create a space of collective vulnerability, where the characters are able to explore their feelings about their relationships, both with themselves and with others.

The narrative turns more introspective as the women continue their dialogue, contemplating their identities, desires, and fears for the future. They find humor and strength in shared experiences, though underlying anxieties about commitments and personal growth are evident in their words. Lila, in particular, expresses her fear of losing her sense of self as she transitions into marriage, sharing her internal conflict about her future role as a wife. She confesses to envisioning a life beyond simply fulfilling others’ expectations, a realization that marks a significant moment of self-awareness for her. Her fear of losing herself in the process of becoming someone’s wife speaks to the universal fear many individuals have when transitioning into significant life roles. This internal battle for identity highlights the complexity of love and the toll that societal pressures and expectations can take on personal fulfillment. The women’s willingness to engage in these conversations creates an atmosphere of mutual support and understanding, allowing them to confront their anxieties together.

As the night progresses, the party atmosphere intensifies, and Lila’s vulnerability becomes even more evident. In a heartfelt moment, she admits her doubts about going through with the marriage, exposing the conflict between her desires and the expectations placed on her. Phoebe, ever the supportive friend, steps in to help Lila face these fears head-on, urging her not to run from the discomfort but to embrace it and find clarity in the process. This shift from avoidance to acceptance represents a pivotal moment for Lila, who begins to acknowledge her inner turmoil rather than suppressing it. The chapter concludes with a deeper understanding between Lila and Phoebe, highlighting their friendship as a source of emotional strength. At the same time, the emotional complexity of Lila’s situation begins to mirror Gary’s own struggles with the loss of his first wife, adding another layer of depth to the narrative. This juxtaposition of Lila’s hesitations and Gary’s past pain sets the stage for the evolving dynamics of their relationship. As Phoebe and Gary share a quiet moment, the chapter hints at potential transformations in their connections, leaving readers wondering how these emotional journeys will unfold.