In the last chapter of this novel, Tartt takes readers to where the narration started. This is when Theo encloses himself in a hotel room, confused and fearing an encounter with authorities. Theo cannot return to New York because he left his passport in Boris’ car. Theo contemplates suicide, and writes letters to people who are significant to his life informing them of his plans. In the letter addressed to Hobie, for example, Theo likens himself to a sick puppy. However, as Theo leaves his hotel room to commit suicide, Boris appears carrying huge sums of money. He explains to Theo that he had engineered a successful return of the masterpiece to museum authorities and the money he is carrying is Theo’s reward.

Theo returns to New York, meets Hobie, and narrates the entire story about The Goldfinch. He also tells Hobie about his scam with restored antiques. The two agree to use part of the reward to recover forgeries that Theo had sold as originals. Theo travels worldwide repurchasing the fake antiques as he prepares for a better future. As the novel ends, Pippa tells Theo that they can only be friends. On the other hand, Theo’s relationship issues with Kitsey remain unresolved, but Mrs. Barbour tells Theo that he can still be part of her family anytime he wants.