In Sylvia Plath's "The Bell Jar," the narrator reflects on a pivotal moment when Buddy Willard kissed her, making her feel more desirable and experienced than he seemed. His attention and actions, like hugging and kissing, made her believe that she was the catalyst for his desires, impacting his behavior in a spontaneous way. This interaction gave her a newfound sense of power and sexuality, as it appeared that he was attracted to her without any pretense.

However, the narrator realizes that Buddy's innocent facade was just an act. His behavior, which initially felt genuine, was revealed to be a pretense, as he had been hiding his true feelings and intentions behind a mask of naivety. This awakening not only alters her perception of him but also leads her to question the authenticity of the connections she forms with others, altering her understanding of her own identity and experiences in relationships.