This Summer Will Be Different
by Carley Fortune
Contents
Chapter 2
Overview
Lucy boards a flight to Prince Edward Island to support Bridget, who sounds uncharacteristically lost. On the way, Lucy recalls the origin of their deep friendship and how their careers diverged. She postpones a crucial work meeting to be there and resolves not to repeat past romantic mistakes on the island.
Summary
Eight days before Bridget’s wedding, Lucy flies to Charlottetown, trying to steady her nerves and insisting she is traveling only to support Bridget, not to see the man she shouldn’t think about. Bridget had called sounding shaken and asked Lucy to come, offering few details.
As the flight begins, Lucy remembers how lonely she felt before meeting Bridget, then recalls their first real encounter: a disastrous work party, a broken shoe, and Bridget giving her a bike ride home. Their bond formed quickly, evolving into years of shared routines and Lucy finally feeling understood.
Lucy notes how life has shifted since: they no longer live together; Bridget’s career flourished after an interview at Sunnybrook; both are busier and getaways are rare. Midflight turbulence and a nightmare about dead wedding flowers amplify Lucy’s anxiety.
Despite a critical meeting with Lillian at Cena, Lucy reschedules and can’t confirm her return, accepting Bridget’s purchased ticket. As the plane descends, Lucy absorbs the beauty of PEI, acknowledges past mistakes made there, and commits to making different choices—above all, prioritizing Bridget and not falling in love.
Who Appears
- Lucy AshbyProtagonist; flies to PEI to support Bridget, recalls their origin story, postpones work, and resolves not to repeat past romantic mistakes.
- BridgetLucy’s best friend and bride-to-be; calls Lucy sounding lost, prompting Lucy’s urgent trip.
- Aunt StacyLucy’s aunt; earlier dubbed Bridget Lucy’s fairy tale, underscoring the friendship’s importance.
- Lillian (Cena)Professional contact; Lucy reschedules a key meeting with her to prioritize Bridget.