Nerissa faces harsh rejection from a family member who refuses to support her medical bills, accusing her of dragging him down because she is deaf-mute. Despite this, Nerissa remains determined to uphold her relationship with Brian, whom she helped recover with her sacrifices. When her mother urges her to study abroad, Nerissa refuses, fearing a long-distance split with Brian. At a freshman ball, Nerissa attends with Brian and is unexpectedly chosen for a kissing challenge that could win a grand prize. She plans to reveal her secret—that she isn’t actually deaf-mute—after the party, setting up a tense confrontation.