Contents
Forty-Four
Overview
Gwen drifts emotionally as Llewellyn Wren’s AIDS triggers a catastrophic fracture and grim prognosis, sharpening everyone’s sense of mortality and guilt. Arthur and Gwen share an intimate prom night before Tana’s sudden labor sends them to the hospital. Gwen commits to caring for Llewellyn and pursuing EMT training, while Arthur prepares for Oxford. A baby boy is delivered by C-section.
Summary
Arthur notices Gwen is distant rather than openly grieving after Jayne’s death, their romance muted by guilt and trauma. He withholds news of his Oxford acceptance, unsure how to tell her.
Llewellyn Wren falls when his AIDS-ravaged femur snaps; scans reveal severe osteopenia and broken ribs. After one surgeon refuses him, a Boston specialist operates successfully, but antibiotics leave Llewellyn debilitated. Colin bluntly frames the limits of control and evil, and a hospital bed is moved into The Briars.
On prom night, Arthur picks up Gwen. Amid awkward sweetness and lingering sorrow, they leave the dance and go to Arthur’s place, where they make love, each seeking tenderness despite the shadow of Jayne’s death.
Tana calls mid-tryst, in active labor. Arthur and Gwen rush her to Maine Medical. While waiting, Arthur learns Gwen already knows about Oxford. She reveals a deeper decision: she will forgo Rackham for EMT training at the University of Southern Maine and will help care for Llewellyn, seeking atonement through service.
Arthur wrestles with jealousy and fear but recognizes Gwen’s resolve. Gwen becomes Tana’s allowed support in surgery. By morning, Tana delivers a healthy baby boy via C-section. Arthur understands he hasn’t lost Gwen to school choices but to the moral path she feels compelled to follow.
Who Appears
- Gwen UnderfootEmotionally withdrawn; attends prom with Arthur; commits to EMT school and caring for Llewellyn; supports Tana through C-section.
- Arthur OakesStruggles with trauma and love; accepted to Oxford; shares prom night intimacy; drives Tana to hospital; conflicted over Gwen’s choice.
- Llewellyn WrenAIDS patient; catastrophic femur break and broken ribs; surgery succeeds but he remains frail; needs extensive care.
- Tana NighswanderGoes into labor unexpectedly; undergoes C-section; delivers a healthy baby boy with Gwen as her support person.
- Colin WrenProvides medical insight and coordinates home care; frames the grim outlook and moral limits they face.
- Arlene UnderfootHelps arrange home care for Llewellyn; present with nurses at The Briars.