Contents
Chapter 34
Overview
Allie debates a sitcom offer, but after her father sprains his wrist, Dean checks on him in New York and bonds with Joe. Allie and Dean reunite, affirm their love, and discuss futures. Allie turns down the project for creative fit, while Dean commits to becoming a PE teacher and coach.
Summary
Allie tells Hannah she plans to turn down a lead sitcom role despite pressure from friends and her agent, trusting her gut. When Allie learns her father Joe sprained his wrist, she calls Dean, who is already in New York, to check on him.
Dean visits Joe, stays overnight at Allie’s request, and the two share food, sports, and guarded conversation that softens into mutual respect. Dean learns the story behind Allie’s custom perfume, reveals he watches French soap operas with her, and earns Joe’s reluctant approval.
Back at Briar, Allie meets Dean in his room. She confirms Joe is fine and tells Dean she no longer needs time alone. They reconcile, admit how much they missed each other, and discuss her hesitation about the Fox pilot.
Dean presents plane tickets—for Joe, not himself—offering a solution for Allie to work in LA without leaving her father. Allie still declines the project because she doesn’t connect with the role and won’t sign a long contract for something she dislikes.
Dean shares his decision to pursue teaching and coaching, planning to upgrade his degree and interview for a Manhattan private school position coaching girls’ hockey. He’s already spoken with Coach Ellis, NYU/Columbia admissions, and his supportive family. Reassured and proud, Allie and Dean reaffirm their relationship and intimacy.
Who Appears
- Allie HayesDebates a sitcom offer, worries over her dad, reunites with Dean, declines the project for fit, recommits to the relationship.
- Dean Di LaurentisChecks on Joe in New York, bonds with him, proposes relocating Joe to support Allie, chooses teaching and coaching.
- Joe HayesSprains his wrist, resists help but bonds with Dean; shares the story of Allie’s custom perfume.
- Hannah WellsUrges Allie to accept the sitcom; provides updates on Dean during their separation.