‘After Everything’ (2023) Ending Explained, Sequel, Prequel, & More

“After Everything” (2023), is the fifth and concluding chapter in the love saga of Tessa (Josephine Langford) and Hardin (Hero Fiennes Tiffin).

“After Everything” picks up where its predecessor, “After Ever Happy,” left off, with Tessa and Hardin going their separate ways after a revealing novel about their relationship hits the bestseller lists. The story unravels with Hardin’s attempt to mend the pieces of his shattered heart.

After the heart-wrenching breakup with Tessa, Hardin finds himself in a creative and emotional abyss, grappling with the aftermath of his own actions.

Hardin, caught in the clutches of writer’s block, is haunted by the echoes of a love lost. It’s a journey through the depths of his soul as he attempts to put pen to paper, unraveling the tangled threads of his emotions and trying to make sense of a world without Tessa.

In a surprising turn of events, Hardin decides to confront his past mistakes by jetting off to Lisbon, Portugal. Destination: Natalie, a figure from his history intricately woven with regrets and a desire for redemption. Mimi Keene brings Natalie to life in a way that tugs at your heartstrings.

A sincere apology to Natalie becomes a turning point in Hardin’s journey. The revelation of a bet, a leaked sex tape, and the ruin it brought upon Natalie’s life – it’s a moment of reckoning. But, surprise, surprise! Forgiveness becomes the unexpected resolution, paving the way for healing and closure.

Vance’s Advice and Hardin’s Decision
After the soul-searching journey in Lisbon, Hardin faces some tough love and sage advice from none other than Vance, his biological father.

Vance throws some truth bombs Hardin’s way. He suggests moving on from Tessa and taking a break from writing if that’s what it takes. It’s a moment of raw honesty, a fatherly nudge to shake off the shackles of the past.

But, and here’s the kicker, Hardin isn’t one to back down. Despite the counsel, he’s determined to finish what he started. With newfound resolve, he dives back into his novel, penning down the complexities of his life before Tessa. It’s a commitment to self-discovery and closure.

There’s a surprise twist! Vance leaves a wedding invitation from Landon addressed to Hardin. Now, we know Landon is a significant figure in this saga, and a wedding invitation means drama and perhaps a chance for reconciliation. What could possibly go down at the wedding?

Hardin’s Transformation and Dedication to Writing
Hardin, at a crossroads, decides it’s high time for a change. No more drowning sorrows in a bottle. He tosses away the alcohol and dedicates himself to something more profound – his novel. It’s a redemption arc that hits you right in the feels.

Let’s talk about the juicy details. Hardin, in an unexpected turn, starts penning down the chapters of his life before Tessa. The focus? His tumultuous past with Natalie. It’s a journey of self-reflection, a candid exploration of mistakes and growth, all inked onto the pages of his second novel, ‘Before.’

But wait, there’s more. Natalie, the once-damaged figure from Hardin’s past, starts playing a recurring role in his present. Their evolving relationship adds layers to the story, creating moments of tension and understanding. Hardin’s honesty and Natalie’s willingness to forgive weave a compelling narrative thread.

Hardin’s Gestures Towards Natalie
In a move that screams sincerity and remorse, Hardin decides to share his literary creation, ‘Before,’ with Natalie. It’s not just any novel; it’s a piece of his soul, a narrative that dives deep into his past, vulnerabilities, and the rocky road that led him to this moment. The pages carry echoes of apologies and growth.

Natalie’s reaction is a blend of surprise, gratitude, and perhaps a dash of disbelief. As she flips through the chapters that bear her name, she realizes this isn’t just about the past; it’s about acknowledging mistakes and moving forward. Hardin’s attempt at closure through his writing becomes a bridge to healing.

And here’s where it gets emotionally charged. The novel becomes a catalyst for closure, an opportunity for forgiveness. Hardin and Natalie, through tears and shared memories, find a way to put the past to rest. It’s a moment of redemption and reconciliation that leaves us with a hopeful glow.