Contents
Chapter 34: Vernice
Overview
Vernice navigates McHenry household protocol while news breaks that Joette’s wedding is off. Annie writes that she is pregnant by her married employer and desperate. Mrs. McHenry and Franklin refuse to help Vernice find an abortion provider, citing risk and reputation. Ultimately, Marylinda quietly supplies a doctor’s contact, asserting practical solidarity.
Summary
Vernice reflects on her early married months, cataloging domestic lessons and the rigid etiquette—“protocol”—governing the McHenry world. A mysterious envelope from the Cunninghams arrives: Joette’s wedding is canceled. The SWAN social circle erupts in calls, and Vernice, unsettled, turns to a letter from Annie.
Annie’s news shocks Vernice: Annie is likely pregnant by her married boss, has lost her job, and faces eviction. Vernice considers outcomes—from coerced marriage to danger—recalling her father as a warning that forced unions can turn lethal. She confides in Mrs. McHenry, who balks at abortion and urges distance from “country” and “ghetto” messes, prioritizing status over compassion.
Vernice appeals to Franklin to discreetly ask his pediatrician brother for a referral. Franklin refuses, citing legal and reputational risks to the McHenry family amid racist scrutiny and their political visibility. The couple argues; Franklin insists on prudence while acknowledging Vernice’s love for Annie, but holds his boundary.
Finding no help within her in-laws, Vernice turns to Marylinda. Before Vernice finishes explaining, Marylinda writes down a provider’s number and address, telling Vernice to use her name. Vernice safeguards the note, recognizing Marylinda’s decisive aid as the path to protect Annie despite social protocol.
Who Appears
- VerniceNarrator; torn between McHenry protocol and loyalty to Annie; seeks abortion help, rebuffed by in-laws, aided by Marylinda.
- Mrs. McHenryMother-in-law; enforces strict social protocol, gossips about Joette, refuses abortion help, urges distance from “mess.”
- AnnieVernice’s cradle friend; writes that she’s pregnant by her married boss, jobless, desperate for an abortion.
- FranklinVernice’s husband; refuses to involve his physician brother due to legal and reputational risks.
- MarylindaJoette’s cousin and Vernice’s contact; swiftly provides an abortion doctor’s information from memory.
- Junior (Dr. McHenry)Franklin’s brother; pediatrician cited as unable to help; potential risk to license used as rationale.
- JoetteFormer roommate; her engagement is abruptly canceled, triggering widespread social gossip.
- Mr. WilsonAnnie’s married employer and likely father of her pregnancy; catalyst for Annie’s crisis.