Chapter 20 begins with a moment of deep emotional tension as Phoebe enters her hotel room, only to find herself face-to-face with Matt. The atmosphere is thick with uncertainty as they stand together, their history weighing heavily in the air between them. Phoebe, unsure of what to feel, is struck by the realization that the man in front of her, once her husband, now feels like a stranger. Matt, equally unsure of how to navigate the encounter, stands awkwardly, and their reunion is marred by discomfort and confusion. The awkwardness is compounded by Gary, Phoebe’s current partner, leaving with her daughter, Juice, which intensifies the sense of strangeness between Phoebe and Matt. The separation of their lives is undeniable, and in this moment, the vast emotional distance between them becomes glaringly clear.

Matt begins by expressing his concern for Phoebe, revealing the emotional turmoil he experienced when he thought she might be dead after her sudden disappearance. The weight of his words is evident, as he opens up about the pain he felt, especially the loss of their dog, Harry, which had become a symbol of their shared life. This admission adds depth to Matt’s character, showing a vulnerability that has been hidden for years. Their conversation shifts as they both revisit old wounds, with Matt still seeing Phoebe as his wife despite the divorce that has torn them apart. Phoebe, on the other hand, finds herself reflecting on their past with bitterness and regret, questioning the actions that led them to such a painful separation. The dialogue between them is a mixture of raw emotion, with moments of tenderness interspersed with the uncomfortable truth of their estranged relationship.

As their conversation unfolds, Phoebe asserts her independence, making it clear that she has grown and changed in the years since their separation. She confronts Matt about the abandonment she felt when he left her, particularly during the most difficult times in their marriage. She also brings up his infidelity with Mia, acknowledging the deep betrayal she felt when he chose to be with someone else. Despite the anger and hurt she expresses, Phoebe also confesses that, in a strange way, she is glad Matt still cares enough to find her after all these years. It’s a moment of vulnerability for both of them, as they both realize the complexity of their emotions. Phoebe acknowledges the space she now occupies in her own life—independent, stronger, and resolute in her own desires.

Their shared history continues to hover over their conversation, and Matt’s desire to reconnect with Phoebe is palpable. He expresses regret for his past mistakes, particularly the choices he made that led to their separation. His longing to rekindle something that once was is evident, but Phoebe is resolute in her stance. She tells him that their relationship, as they once knew it, is forever changed. Despite the moments of warmth and nostalgia they share, Phoebe is determined to keep moving forward, no longer willing to return to the dynamic they once had. She sees herself as someone different now, and while she recognizes the past’s emotional pull, she knows that her future lies ahead, not behind.

As their conversation grows more emotionally intense, their reflection on their shared memories culminates in a kiss. The kiss, however, is fraught with conflicting emotions for Phoebe. On one hand, she feels an undeniable attraction to Matt, a lingering connection from their past that is impossible to ignore. On the other hand, she recognizes the need to establish new boundaries in her life, boundaries that this kiss complicates. The kiss serves as a poignant reminder of the love they once shared, but it also underscores the reality of the changes that have taken place. For Phoebe, this moment becomes an internal battle between her heart and her head, as she struggles to reconcile the love she still feels with the person she has become.

The chapter concludes with Phoebe in a reflective state, processing the emotional whirlwind of the day. She understands that her relationship with Matt has reached a critical juncture, one where the past must be let go in order for her to embrace the future. The emotional complexity of their interaction lingers in Phoebe’s mind, with her recognizing the need to confront her feelings for Matt head-on. However, she also knows that, despite the lingering attraction, she cannot return to the life they once had together. Her journey toward self-discovery is far from over, and she realizes that this chapter with Matt—though significant—must come to an end. The emotional tension between them signals a turning point, as Phoebe looks ahead to a future where she can forge her own path, free from the emotional ties of the past. The kiss may have sparked old feelings, but Phoebe’s resolve to build a new life remains unshaken.