Contents
Chapter 34
Overview
At Teddy’s birthday party, Naomi keeps to herself, intent on staying for the cake. Jeremy accuses her of destroying Veronica’s gift and demands she leave. Veronica’s performative tears sway Jeremy, and he calls the police. The chapter ends with sirens approaching as Teddy watches, shaken.
Summary
Naomi isolates herself at Teddy’s birthday party, determined to at least be present for singing and cake. She reminisces about leading the song in past years and braces against being socially shunned by other parents.
Jeremy storms out, furious, and accuses Naomi of destroying Veronica’s planned gift for Teddy—a robot car allegedly found smashed. Naomi denies it, explaining she only went into the kitchen for food. Veronica cries convincingly, but when Jeremy’s back is turned, Naomi catches a fleeting smile, reinforcing Naomi’s belief that Veronica is manipulating the situation.
Jeremy orders Naomi to leave the property immediately. Naomi refuses, asserting her right as Teddy’s mother to stay for the cake. As onlookers gather, Jeremy calls 911. Teddy arrives, silent and visibly shaken, caught between his parents as tensions escalate.
Despite Naomi’s desire to avoid upsetting Teddy, the situation spirals. Jeremy reiterates that the police are on their way, framing Naomi as trespassing. Naomi stands firm, and the chapter closes with approaching sirens, leaving the confrontation unresolved and Teddy distressed.
Who Appears
- NaomiMother and POV; attends Teddy’s party, is accused of destroying a gift, refuses to leave, witnesses Jeremy call police.
- JeremyEstranged husband; publicly accuses Naomi of ruining Veronica’s present and calls the police to eject her.
- VeronicaJeremy’s partner; claims her gift was destroyed, cries for sympathy, flashes a secret smile when Jeremy isn’t looking.
- TeddyBirthday boy; witnesses his parents’ confrontation, remains silent and visibly upset as sirens approach.