This is the episode we’ve all been waiting for – Conrad’s point of view. His yearning voice-overs had many of us who already stan him falling even harder. There were so many iconic scenes to mention – the peach-picking scene, in particular, was so swoon-worthy I could barely breathe.
Here’s a rundown of what went down at Cousins and my honest review of the whirlwind episode.
What Happened in The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Episode 5?
Conrad’s POV
Okay, we can’t just brush over the fact that this episode was really good. For anyone watching the show—even those who love Jeremiah—it was clear how much Conrad’s presence was needed. After his confusing behaviour in the previous season, many of us were left wondering: Did he still have feelings for Belly? Why did he act the way he did?
This episode finally gave us insight into everything going on beneath the surface. I was definitely satisfied.
I loved that Conrad got to spend time with Belly during her hectic wedding planning season. He was a calming presence when she needed it most.
It felt so natural to have him back at Cousins, especially since we barely saw him in the last few episodes.
The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3, Episode 5 – titled The Last Dance -is directed by series creator Jenny Han, and she does a wonderful job.
Emotional Moments
There are so many perfect moments and shots in this episode. As much as we can see Conrad trying to keep himself busy to avoid his feelings, it’s nice to see that he just can’t suppress them — they’re too strong.
We see Conrad, who spends much of the episode avoiding Belly – fixing the roof, avoiding her gaze, trying to maintain distance – but ultimately saves her when she struggles with her bike.
They go on errands together: cake and flower shopping.
I love how real this episode is because it can be difficult when you’re planning a wedding, especially when everything starts going wrong.
I think it’s safe to say that all of Belly’s emotions that were bubbly over the last few episodes have finally come to the surface as she weeps while being with Conrad. I’m glad he was able to offer her a shoulder to cry on and help her get through her troubles.
Eventually, to help her with the expenses, Conrad found practical advice for her issues.
The Iconic Peach Scene
Have I talked about the peach scene already? Yep, I probably have – but I just can’t get enough of it.
There was so much tension. The scene was perfectly shot – picturesque view, stunning lighting, and completely breathtaking.
In this moment, Belly eats a peach, and Conrad wipes the juice off her chin with his shirt, a beautifully intimate and long-awaited gesture taken straight from the books.
Many fans, myself included, couldn’t get enough of it. This beloved moment was finally adapted, and it did not disappoint.
Flashback Revelation
I’m a sucker for a good flashback scene (or maybe even a hundred?!), and wow, I absolutely loved the ones in this episode.
First, the moment where we finally see that Conrad always had a soft spot for Belly—even before she was seen as “pretty.” Childhood lovers? I’m obsessed.
Conrad genuinely cared about Belly’s feelings and always tried to be there for her. That scene where he helps her ride a bike – not just any bike, but his – while Steven and Jeremiah leave them behind? So cute.
And of course, that flashback sex scene between Belly and Conrad? Hot.
Conrad Vulnerability
Conrad has largely been someone who, unfortunately, is often misunderstood. While his actions are sometimes perceived as selfish, the truth is quite the opposite—he deeply cares about the people closest to him.
Do I excuse his often-toxic behaviour? No. He definitely needs to learn how to communicate better. But the good news is that he’s going to therapy, learning to deal with his trauma, and working to grow as a person.
Conrad has always kept his walls up. I think, for him, being the oldest means feeling like he has to be the protector, never letting others see his struggles.
That’s why I’m so glad this episode explored his inner battles.
Conrad opens up about his struggles, his panic attacks, and the fact that he’s seeking help. He also reveals that he was fired the night of Steven’s accident.
There’s also a touching moment from Belly, who shares that she’s considering majoring in sports psychology – and the reason behind her decision.
Belly & Jeremiah Complicated Plans
There’s a lot happening behind the scenes with the wedding planning.
Belly is in Cousins, doing everything she can to find the perfect cake and dress, while Jeremiah is focused on winning over his father’s approval for the wedding.
It’s clear that his absence isn’t ideal – and it’s starting to reveal a lot about his character.
Conrad’s Inner Conflict
The last scene was particularly poignant. Conrad is consumed by heartbreak and guilt—he made a promise to his dying mother, Susannah, to always take care of Jeremiah, and that promise is tearing him apart.
I was bawling my eyes out at this point. Ahhh!
Rating
My Thoughts on The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Episode 5💌
This is probably one of my favourite episodes to date. I think that even if I weren’t Team Conrad, I’d still appreciate the beautiful shots and the amazing dialogue between the characters.
You don’t wanna know how much I screamed when I found out that Conrad’s voiceover would feature in episode 5.
I loved this part in the book and how it came to life on the screen.
There’s just something about hearing Conrad’s inner thoughts that made all of us understand him more – he’s not just there to serve us face(though he definitely does).
It’s like we’re finally seeing the version of him that’s been hidden all along.
Every shot felt intentional, capturing not just the beauty of Cousins and the tensions between Belly and Conrad.
It felt slower in the best way -like the show was giving us space to sit with the characters and really feel what they’re going through.
Read my review of The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Episode 4 here.