Content Warning: Brief mention of suicidal ideation.

As Alex and Lena leave the prison, Lena feels lost and numb. They hide in an alley when Lena starts feeling physically ill at the realization that her family must know that her mother is alive. She does not want to return home because she feels violently angry. They argue about running away. Alex reassures her that her mother loves her and that she didn’t come back for Lena after escaping because it isn’t safe. He tells Lena that he loves her, and Lena is finally able to reciprocate by saying the words out loud. Lena suddenly realizes, thanks to her mother, that true love sometimes requires sacrifice. Lena is aware of everything she will be giving up by running away to the Wilds but decides to choose freedom with Alex. They plan to leave in a week after preparing and gathering supplies. After they escape, they will be invalidated and killed if they are ever caught.

Back home, Lena calls Hana to meet up for a run. Lena’s anger at her family has receded now that escape is imminent; she instead feels pity for them and their fate. Carol reminds Lena that her cure is in 16 days, so Lena pretends to be excited again.