Who Does Molly End Up With In 'The Upside Of Unrequited'?

Molly's journey in 'The Upside of Unrequited' is all about self-discovery, and her romantic arc reflects that beautifully. She ends up with Reid, the sweet, nerdy guy who works with her at the movie theater. What makes their relationship special is how naturally it develops—no grand gestures, just two awkward teens bonding over shared interests. Reid appreciates Molly for who she is, unlike her previous crushes who made her feel like she needed to change. Their dynamic is refreshing because it’s built on mutual respect and dorky humor, not just physical attraction. The scene where they finally kiss during a 'Lord of the Rings' marathon perfectly captures their vibe: low-key, genuine, and full of heart.

As someone who’s read 'The Upside of Unrequited' three times, I can confirm Molly’s endgame is Reid, and their relationship is one of the most authentic portrayals of young love I’ve seen. Reid isn’t the flashy choice—he’s the guy who remembers Molly’s favorite candy, debates the merits of different book-to-film adaptations with her, and doesn’t pressure her to lose her virginity before she’s ready. Their connection grows slowly, from coworkers to friends to something more, and it’s all the sweeter for it.

What stands out is how Becky Albertalli writes Reid’s character. He’s not just a love interest; he’s a fully realized person with his own anxieties and passions. His weight struggles mirror Molly’s, creating a bond rooted in shared vulnerability rather than superficial traits. The scene where he confesses his feelings by comparing Molly to a hobbit—because they’re both 'short, brave, and a little bit hungry'—is iconic. It’s a relationship that celebrates imperfections, proving you don’t need to be 'cool' to deserve love.

For readers craving similar slow-burn romances, I’d suggest 'Today Tonight Tomorrow' by Rachel Lynn Solomon or 'Tweet Cute' by Emma Lord. Both capture that same mix of humor and heartfelt connection.

Molly’s love story in 'The Upside of Unrequited' subverts typical YA tropes by pairing her with Reid instead of the more conventionally 'exciting' options. Reid’s the antithesis of the brooding bad boy—he’s a Tolkien-loving, playlist-making softie who wears his heart on his sleeve. Their relationship works because it’s grounded in reality: they bicker about trivial things, laugh at inside jokes, and support each other’s growth without drama.

The brilliance lies in how their romance mirrors Molly’s arc. Early in the book, she obsesses over unattainable crushes, believing she needs to earn affection by being thinner or more daring. With Reid, she learns love isn’t transactional. His quiet consistency helps her realize she’s already enough—a message that resonated deeply with me as a reader. Their ending isn’t flashy, but it’s profoundly satisfying because it feels earned.