The Summer I Turned Pretty, #3
We'll Always Have Summer
by Jenny Han
Contents
Chapter Forty
Overview
Belly’s bridal shower reunites her with Laurel, who attends, brings a gift, and silently reconciles with her daughter. Surrounded by friends and Taylor’s planning, Belly feels her doubts lift. She calls Jeremiah, newly confident, and later enjoys a cozy night at home with Laurel and Steven, restoring family support.
Summary
On the day of Taylor’s bridal shower, Belly dresses up and, leaving Cousins, receives a brief compliment from Conrad—their first words since the peach stand—before heading to Taylor’s house. The party is festive, with decorations, favorite foods, and friends gathered.
Belly is stunned to find Laurel present, smartly dressed and calm. They share a long, wordless hug that signals reconciliation. As gifts are opened—housewares from friends, a down comforter from Laurel—Taylor records presents and leads playful games, deepening the celebratory mood and Belly’s sense that things are finally aligning.
Belly feels immense relief at having her mother back on her side. After the party, Laurel simply tells Belly, “You’re my girl,” sealing their mended bond. Belly calls Jeremiah, exclaiming that they are “so on,” her anxieties about the wedding easing with her mother’s support.
That night, Belly stays at home with Laurel and Steven. They watch a crime reenactment show and eat Fritos and Laurel’s lemon squares, ending the day with familial comfort that strengthens Belly’s confidence moving forward.
Who Appears
- Belly (Isabel Conklin)Bride-to-be; reunited with Laurel at her shower, feels renewed confidence, calls Jeremiah, and spends a warm night at home.
- Laurel ConklinAttends the shower, gifts a down comforter, silently reconciles with Belly, later relaxes at home with her children.
- Taylor JewelBest friend and shower host; organizes games, tracks gifts, and helps create a celebratory atmosphere.
- Lucinda JewelTaylor’s mother and co-host; provides food, leads traditions, and beams support for Belly.
- Jeremiah FisherFiancé; off-page phone call where Belly declares renewed commitment after reconciling with Laurel.
- Steven ConklinBelly’s brother; spends the evening watching TV with Belly and Laurel, reinforcing family unity.
- Conrad FisherBriefly tells Belly she looks nice before the shower, their first words since the peach stand.
- Marcy YooFriend at the shower; brings a gift and joins the celebration and games.
- BlairFriend at the shower; brings a gift and shares Belly’s excitement.
- Aunt MindyTaylor’s aunt; attends and gifts hand towels during the shower.