The Summer I Turned Pretty, #2
It's Not Summer Without You
by Jenny Han
Contents
Chapter Thirty-Seven
Overview
In a flashback from Jeremiah’s perspective, Laurel unexpectedly arrives during Susannah’s illness, quietly taking charge and easing the household strain. Jeremiah attends his senior banquet, breaks up with Mara, and returns to find Laurel and Susannah laughing together. Laurel then stays the week, becoming vital support during a difficult time.
Summary
Jeremiah recalls the day Laurel arrived unannounced while Susannah was exhausted from new medication. Rushing to his senior banquet, Jeremiah burns his arm; Laurel calmly finishes ironing his clothes and urges him to go, promising to handle things at home.
Jeremiah picks up his girlfriend, Mara, but arrives late, souring the evening despite their winning Cutest Couple. Skipping the after-party, they talk in the car, and Jeremiah admits he doesn’t see them surviving long distance in the fall. Mara cries and ends the night, effectively ending their relationship.
Returning home, Jeremiah finds Laurel and Susannah up, playing cards and listening to music, and hears Susannah laugh for the first time in days. Laurel doesn’t leave the next day; she stays the entire week, providing steady adult support when Jeremiah most needs it.
Who Appears
- Jeremiah FisherNarrator; rushes to senior banquet, breaks up with Mara, and relies on Laurel’s support during Susannah’s illness.
- Laurel DunneArrives unexpectedly, takes charge of the household, comforts Susannah, and stays the week.
- Susannah FisherIll and often asleep due to new medication; briefly brightens while spending time with Laurel.
- MaraJeremiah’s girlfriend; upset about his lateness and devastated when he ends their relationship.