Summer, #1
The Summer I Turned Pretty
by Jenny Han
Contents
chapter thirteen
Overview
Laurel, worried by Susannah’s concerns and Conrad’s recent changes, asks Belly if Conrad is using drugs. Belly firmly denies it and refuses to see him that way. The talk underscores growing adult anxieties around Conrad and Belly’s instinctive loyalty, hinting at deeper troubles beneath the summer’s surface.
Summary
Belly relaxes on the porch with toast and a magazine when Laurel joins her with a purposeful, serious air. Laurel casually asks about Belly’s plans, nudging her toward summer reading, signaling an impending mother-daughter talk Belly dreads.
Laurel then asks directly if Conrad is doing drugs, explaining she already asked Steven and that Susannah is worried because Conrad has been acting differently and quit football. Belly, shocked, insists Conrad would never do drugs and feels certain enough to bet on it.
Laurel presses Belly to promise she will tell her if she hears anything. Belly resists making a promise and teases her mother for being a “narc,” lightening the mood. The conversation ends with uneasy humor, but the concern about Conrad’s behavior remains unresolved, highlighting Belly’s loyalty and the adults’ growing alarm.
Who Appears
- Belly (Isabel Conklin)Narrator; denies Conrad could be using drugs and resists promising to report anything.
- LaurelBelly’s mother; initiates a serious talk, asks about Conrad and seeks reassurance.
- Conrad FisherAbsent subject of concern; rumored behavioral changes prompt drug-use question.
- StevenBelly’s brother; Laurel already asked him about Conrad, but he knew nothing.
- Susannah (Beck) FisherVoiced the initial worry to Laurel; her concern triggers the conversation.