Contents
Chapter 53
Overview
Laurel learns Hanna is dating Theo and confronts her own long-held grief and resentment. After Paul urges her to consider forgiving Hanna for not being Ellie, Laurel recognizes her emotional withdrawal after Ellie’s disappearance. She reaches out with an apologetic, loving voicemail, signaling a shift toward reconciliation.
Summary
Laurel drives past Hanna’s flat hoping to glimpse Hanna with Theo, confirming to herself that Hanna is now seeing Ellie’s former boyfriend. The realization unsettles Laurel, who reflexively compares Hanna to Ellie and imagines Hanna as a consolation prize.
Laurel recalls seeing Hanna radiant with Theo and recognizes the contrast with Hanna’s usual coldness toward her. Seeking clarity, Laurel calls Paul. Paul confirms he has known about the relationship for months and suggests that Hanna doesn’t hate Laurel; rather, Hanna needed Laurel’s forgiveness for not being Ellie after Ellie’s disappearance.
Paul’s words trigger Laurel’s self-examination: after Ellie vanished, Laurel emotionally withdrew and, resentful, never fully accepted Hanna. Acknowledging this, Laurel decides to repair the relationship.
Laurel calls Hanna’s voicemail and leaves a heartfelt message: praising Hanna, apologizing for making her feel second-best, blessing her relationship with Theo, and affirming her love. Unburdened, Laurel feels relief and lightness.
Who Appears
- Laurel MackMother processing Hanna’s relationship with Theo; confronts her grief, accepts her failings, and leaves Hanna a loving apology.
- Hanna MackLaurel’s daughter; in a happy relationship with Theo; typically distant with Laurel, prompting Laurel’s realization.
- Paul MackLaurel’s ex-husband; reveals he knew about Hanna’s boyfriend and advises Laurel to forgive Hanna for not being Ellie.
- Theo GoodmanEllie’s former boyfriend, now dating Hanna; his presence triggers Laurel’s comparisons and eventual self-reckoning.