Contents
Chapter 34
Overview
Charlie proposes a long-distance relationship, but Nora, afraid of slow heartbreak, refuses to plan beyond the week. They instead live fully in the present while the town readies for the Blue Moon Ball and Dusty’s book club. On Friday, Nora shares a tender stargazing moment with Libby, reaffirming their bond despite impending distance.
Summary
Late at night after pie with Libby and Brendan, Charlie arrives and takes Nora for a walk to the gazebo. He proposes a structured long-distance plan of monthly visits and constant contact. Nora, haunted by past failures and fear of drawn-out heartbreak, suggests ending without goodbyes after this week. Charlie rejects her proposed ending, urging her to offer a better one, leaving hope unsettled.
The week becomes a busy blur. Libby organizes the fundraiser ball; Brendan advances the mortgage; Charlie mans the bookstore while Sally prepares for Dusty’s virtual book club. Nora sneaks in work, updates her résumé for Loggia, and lets herself daydream about a future with Charlie and a new job, while the two keep their connection alive through playful, future-casting texts that avoid defining the long-term.
As Friday arrives with cooler weather, the family camps in the yard. After pizza, Brendan takes the bed, and Nora is unexpectedly moved by affection for him. Under the stars, Nora and Libby joke and cry, then promise to look at the same sky to feel together after Libby moves. Nora reassures Libby that their mother’s presence isn’t tied to New York, and Libby thanks her. Nora falls asleep without dreaming of their mom.
Who Appears
- Nora StephensProtagonist; rejects planning a long-distance relationship, chooses to live in the moment, daydreams about Loggia and Charlie, shares a poignant stargazing pact with Libby.
- Charlie LastraProposes a structured long-distance plan; refuses Nora’s proposed clean break and keeps hope alive through affectionate, future-focused texts.
- LibbyNora’s pregnant sister; organizes the fundraiser ball, shares a tender stargazing moment, and reaffirms ongoing connection despite her move.
- BrendanLibby’s husband; advances mortgage steps, shares family evening; prompts Nora’s emotional appreciation of him.
- SallyHelps prepare the bookstore and Dusty’s virtual book club; in and out managing logistics.
- Dusty FieldingAuthor whose book club event is being organized; presence looms via promotion and edits.
- BeaNora’s niece; camps with the family and chats about baking with Brendan.
- TalaNora’s youngest niece; dozes during camping, adds toddler storytelling color.