Vivian uses a second chance to stop repeating her past: after remembering that following Isaac to Quinby left her ignored and dying, she tells Mr. Wright she will instead apply to National Defense University. Her tutor gives her a new registration form, two months to prepare, and calls her his most outstanding student. Flashbacks show their 17-year bond, her teenage birthday wish and confession, and Isaac’s blunt rejection—he told her to keep her feelings and that they were never meant to be. Vivian declares, "I will live for myself!" and begins two months of uncertain preparation, leaving their relationship unresolved.