The Summer I Turned Pretty, #2
It's Not Summer Without You
by Jenny Han
Contents
Chapter Thirty-Two
Overview
After the chaotic party, Jeremiah confronts Conrad about Belly. Jeremiah openly admits he likes Belly, while Conrad flatly denies having feelings for her. The exchange angers Jeremiah but also gives him hope that he might have a chance with Belly, subtly shifting the brothers’ triangle.
Summary
In the aftermath of the party, Jeremiah sends everyone home and finds Conrad facedown on the couch while the house sits in disarray. Belly has gone to bed drunk and tearful, and Jeremiah blames Conrad. Worried about their father seeing the mess, Jeremiah’s irritation masks a deeper anger over Conrad and Belly.
When Conrad stays detached, Jeremiah presses him about what happened with Belly at the beach. Conrad refuses to explain, which only intensifies Jeremiah’s frustration with Conrad’s growing stoicism since their mother’s death.
Driven by uncertainty, Jeremiah directly asks whether Conrad still likes Belly. Startled, Conrad deflects by asking Jeremiah the same question. After a brief exchange about the prom, Jeremiah admits plainly that he likes Belly “a lot” and demands an answer from Conrad.
Conrad unflinchingly says “no.” Jeremiah doesn’t believe him and is furious at Conrad’s refusal to be honest or to be the dependable person Belly needs. Yet Conrad’s denial also relieves Jeremiah, since Belly has always chosen Conrad when he wanted her. With Conrad seemingly stepping back, Jeremiah allows himself hope that Belly might finally see him.
Who Appears
- Jeremiah FisherNarrator; confronts Conrad, admits he likes Belly, angry at Conrad’s detachment yet hopeful after Conrad’s denial.
- Conrad FisherWithdrawn and stoic; refuses to discuss the beach incident and denies having feelings for Belly.
- Belly (Isabel Conklin)Drunk and tearful after the beach; catalyst for Jeremiah confronting Conrad about their feelings.