Image alt text: My Life With the Walter Boys love triangle featuring Jackie Howard between brothers Cole and Alex Walter, portrayed by Nikki Rodriguez, Noah LaLonde, and Ashby Gentry.
Netflix’s My Life With the Walter Boys has captivated audiences with its intricate love triangle, drawing comparisons to The Vampire Diaries. The series follows Jackie Howard (Nikki Rodriguez), a Manhattan teen who, after a family tragedy, finds herself living in rural Colorado with the large Walter family. Amidst this life change, she navigates budding feelings for two Walter brothers: the brooding Cole (Noah LaLonde) and the gentle Alex (Ashby Gentry). This dynamic, inspired by the Damon and Stefan Salvatore rivalry, keeps viewers guessing: Will Jackie choose Cole or Alex? And crucially, when do Alex and Jackie’s romantic feelings finally lead to a kiss?
The series, adapted from Ali Novak’s popular novel, mirrors the journey from Wattpad sensation to published book and now, a hit Netflix show renewed for a second season. While the novel concludes with Jackie and Cole together, the TV adaptation takes a different path, keeping fans on their toes. The question of when Jackie and Alex share their first kiss is a key milestone in their unfolding relationship, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow.
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Related: Best Love Triangles in TV and Movie History Over the Years
Love triangles are a classic trope in television and movies, adding layers of romantic tension and drama. From Dawson, Pacey, and Joey to countless others, these storylines keep audiences invested. In My Life With the Walter Boys, the anticipation builds as viewers wait to see which brother Jackie will connect with, and when those connections will become romantic.
In the series, Jackie’s relationship with Alex takes a significant step forward when they share their first kiss in episode 5. This moment, however, is preceded by a developing connection and several near-misses, adding to the dramatic buildup. While the series culminates in a passionate kiss between Jackie and Cole, understanding the timeline of Alex and Jackie’s romance is crucial to appreciating the complexities of the love triangle. Let’s explore the key moments leading up to Alex and Jackie’s first kiss and beyond.
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Related: ‘My Life With the Walter Boys’ and More TV Shows Based on Popular Books
The Timeline of Alex and Jackie’s Budding Romance and First Kiss:
Episode 1: Jackie Arrives & Initial Connection
Jackie’s arrival at the Walter ranch immediately introduces her to both Cole and Alex. While Cole makes a strong first impression by the pool, Alex offers Jackie a more gentle welcome. They find themselves in the same class, and Alex extends a friendly hand as she adjusts to her new surroundings. Though not romantic yet, their connection begins to form.
Image alt text: Jackie Howard and Alex Walter in a classroom scene from My Life With the Walter Boys, showcasing their initial connection.
Episode 2: Shared Space and a Near Kiss
As Jackie settles in, she and Alex grow closer. He shares his special place on the farm – the kids’ loft – with her. During this intimate moment amidst haystacks, a near kiss occurs, only to be interrupted by Cole. This almost-kiss hints at the romantic potential between Jackie and Alex and foreshadows the love triangle’s complications.
Episode 3: Alex’s Support and Sober First Kiss Wish
When Jackie skips school with Cole, Alex covers for her, demonstrating his reliable and caring nature. Later, while thanking Alex for his constant support, Jackie attempts to kiss him. However, Alex, displaying respect and genuine affection, tells her he wants their first kiss to be when she’s sober and truly present. This moment highlights Alex’s considerate approach to romance.
Episode 5: Alex and Jackie’s First Official Kiss
Episode 5 marks a turning point in Alex and Jackie’s relationship. During Thanksgiving with the Walters, Alex makes a thoughtful gesture, taking Jackie to a spot reminiscent of Manhattanhenge to ease her homesickness. It is in this meaningful setting, under the setting sun, that Alex and Jackie finally share their first official kiss. This kiss signifies the progression of their relationship from friendship to romance.
Image alt text: Alex Walter and Jackie Howard share their first kiss during sunset in My Life With the Walter Boys, marking a key moment in their romantic relationship.
Post-Kiss Relationship and Complications
Following their first kiss, Alex and Jackie enter a period of romantic bliss in episode 6. However, their relationship is soon tested by the revelation of past tensions between Alex and Cole, specifically involving a girl named Paige. This secret creates friction and introduces doubts into Jackie’s mind about the brothers and their dynamics.
Episode 9: Drift and the Barn Kiss with Cole
As the season progresses, Jackie finds herself drifting from Alex, especially after Cole confesses his feelings for her. Despite being in a relationship with Alex, Jackie shares a significant kiss with Cole in the barn in episode 9. This passionate encounter happens after Alex expresses his love for her, further complicating the love triangle. This barn kiss marks Jackie’s emotional and physical crossing of lines, leading to the season finale’s dramatic cliffhanger.
Image alt text: Jackie Howard and Cole Walter in a rain-soaked scene from My Life With the Walter Boys, highlighting the growing romantic tension between them.
Conclusion: The Kiss That Changed Everything
While Alex and Jackie’s first kiss in episode 5 was a sweet culmination of their developing feelings, it was ultimately overshadowed by the intensifying connection between Jackie and Cole. The barn kiss between Jackie and Cole at the end of season 1 serves as the catalyst for Jackie’s departure and leaves the love triangle unresolved. As fans eagerly await season 2, the question remains: Will Jackie return to Alex, pursue a relationship with Cole, or forge a new path entirely? The journey to their first kiss and the events that followed highlight the emotional rollercoaster at the heart of My Life With the Walter Boys.
