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On their fated night out in Vegas, after Kennedy dumps her designer high heels in the trash, Isaiah buys her a pair of sneakers so that she will be more comfortable. Though he rescues the expensive shoes from the garbage, Kennedy gladly wears the more practical footwear all night. The sneakers symbolize their marriage, their evolving relationship, and Kennedy’s transformation. On the surface, the sneakers are a thoughtful, practical gift from Isaiah, but beneath this simplicity lies a more profound representation of his care for her. Throughout the story, Isaiah notices that Kennedy continues wearing the sneakers. Despite her regrets about their Vegas marriage, she integrates the shoes into her daily life. Just as the shoes provide comfort and stability during long workdays, Isaiah’s presence also makes Kennedy more comfortable and helps her to heal. Trading her uncomfortable designer shoes for something more practical symbolizes Kennedy’s new willingness to break free of her past and the expectations of her loveless family.

Buying the sneakers reveals Isaiah’s attentiveness and desire to support Kennedy in a way that aligns with her independent nature. Kennedy is self-sufficient and often hesitant to rely on others for anything, so by giving her something as practical as sneakers, Isaiah acknowledges her need for autonomy while subtly offering his support.