Second First Impressions

On the afternoon before Teddy’s two-week anniversary as an employee, Ruthie worries about an upcoming management review, as PDC now has access to the facility’s bank accounts. She reflects on how Teddy created a “Good Neighbors Jar” to collect funds for residents’ groceries. While preparing for her craft group, she makes a small medal for Teddy and repeatedly practices locking the rec center door.

Melanie arrives and tells Ruthie that she overheard Renata teasing Teddy, who claimed that love isn’t “in his DNA” (138). As they talk, Teddy jogs past while Renata Parloni follows him on a scooter. Renata stops to tease Ruthie about her interest in Teddy.

Renata then gives Ruthie an impromptu makeover, adjusting her clothing and offering advice. During the makeover, Renata’s sunglasses break. When Teddy returns, he sees Ruthie’s new look and is visibly flustered.

Later that Friday, Melanie visits Ruthie’s cottage. They peek inside Teddy’s unlocked half and observe his sparse living space, which includes a turtle tank and a hand-drawn television labeled “TEDDYVISION.” Afterward, Ruthie prepares a cheese platter in the courtyard. Teddy joins them, followed by Renata.

Melanie presents Ruthie with a formal waiver for the Sasaki Method. Before signing, Ruthie insists on adding multiple confidentiality clauses.