In response to Jamie's idea to perform in front of the orphans, Miss Garber, the drama teacher, suggests that the entire cast (not just Jamie and Landon) perform for the orphans. Jamie and Landon are charged with driving to Morehead City, the next town over, and asking the orphanage director, Mr. Jenkins, for his permission. On their way, Jamie stops by Landon's home and is astonished by its size and grandeur, especially when compared to her own modest house. Landon reflects to himself that his favorite part of the house is the window that allows him to escape his home late at night.
On their way to the orphanage, Landon and Jamie discuss their future, and Jamie suggests that Landon become a minister after college, a suggestion he finds "absolutely ridiculous." Jamie reveals that her own dream is to get married, with a tremendous crowd in attendance and her father walking her down the aisle. Given Jamie's prowess in the classroom, Landon is surprised Jamie doesn't aspire to more in life.
They turn their attention to the orphanage, where Jamie has volunteered for the last seven years. Jamie is disappointed when Mr. Jenkins rejects their idea to perform the play there; he reminds them that the subject matter might sadden the orphans. In spite of her deep disappointment, Jamie understands Mr. Jenkins' decision. She then gives Landon a tour of the orphanage, which depresses him in its starkness.
