Contents
Chapter 18
Overview
Laurel reconnects with Paul after Ellie’s funeral, apologizes, and proposes a joint family birthday gathering, signaling a step toward healing. Hanna resists but agrees to a later date, hinting at a secret relationship. Laurel plans dinner for Floyd, but when childcare falls through, Poppy will join; Floyd asks Laurel to hide Ellie’s photos, revealing he hasn’t told Poppy about Ellie.
Summary
After avoiding Paul since Ellie’s funeral, Laurel calls him. They share a warm, conciliatory conversation in which Laurel apologizes for her hostility during Ellie’s missing years. Paul reaffirms lasting ties beyond marriage. Feeling calmer, Laurel proposes a joint birthday meal for herself and Hanna, including partners.
Laurel then invites Hanna, who balks at the idea and denies having a boyfriend despite flowers Laurel noticed. Hanna refuses the actual birthday but agrees to meet on Friday, warning she’ll blame Laurel if it goes badly, which underscores continuing family strain and secrecy.
Laurel arranges a second date with Floyd at her flat. While shopping and cooking, she reflects on how Ellie’s disappearance ended her nurturing routines and how cooking once symbolized care and safety. Preparing dinner rekindles a sense of purpose.
Minutes before the date, Floyd texts that SJ has canceled, so he can either bring Poppy or reschedule. Laurel chooses to include Poppy. Floyd then asks Laurel to put away any photos of Ellie because he hasn’t told Poppy about Ellie, prompting Laurel to accommodate this boundary as they advance their relationship.
Who Appears
- Laurel MackProtagonist; reconciles with Paul, proposes a family birthday, prepares dinner for Floyd, agrees to host Poppy and hide Ellie’s photos.
- Paul MackLaurel’s ex-husband; warm, supportive, accepts invitation to a joint family birthday and affirms enduring bond.
- Hanna MackLaurel’s daughter; resists family gathering, denies a boyfriend, declines actual birthday but agrees to Friday.
- Floyd DunnLaurel’s new partner; eager to see her, brings Poppy when childcare falls through, asks Laurel to hide Ellie’s photos.
- Poppy DunnFloyd’s daughter; slated to join the dinner at Laurel’s flat after SJ cancels.
- SJFloyd’s older daughter; cancels childcare plans, prompting Poppy to attend the dinner.
- BonnyPaul’s partner; absent but part of the planned family gathering and a point of awkwardness for Hanna.