The Summer I Turned Pretty, #3
We'll Always Have Summer
by Jenny Han
Contents
Chapter Twenty
Overview
Conrad arrives late to Susannah’s dedication, watching from the back as community members praise his mother’s work. Hearing Jeremiah’s heartfelt speech, Conrad feels guilt for not supporting the shelter more. Seeing Jeremiah take Belly’s hand, Conrad hides and concludes coming back was a mistake, deepening the love triangle’s tension.
Summary
Conrad reaches the dedication late after a delayed flight and speeding to Cousins. From the back, he spots Belly seated with Laurel, Steven, and Mr. Fisher. Belly looks more grown up to Conrad, though small details—a Band-Aid on her ankle, a loose barrette—anchor her as the Belly he knows.
As a shelter representative speaks about Susannah’s dedication and impact, Conrad realizes how much of herself his mother gave. Remembering when he refused to help serve breakfast, he feels a sharp pang of shame.
Jeremiah delivers a sincere speech honoring Susannah, recalling her love of flowers and how meaningful the shelter was to her. Conrad thinks their mother would have been proud and believes he should have been up there beside Jeremiah.
When Jeremiah returns to his seat and takes Belly’s hand, Conrad’s stomach tightens. He shifts out of sight behind another attendee, overwhelmed by jealousy and regret.
Unable to reconcile his feelings, Conrad decides that coming back to Cousins was a mistake, leaving the moment—and Belly with Jeremiah—uninterrupted.
Who Appears
- Conrad FisherArrives late, watches unseen; feels guilt about Susannah’s work and pain seeing Belly with Jeremiah.
- Jeremiah FisherGives a heartfelt speech honoring Susannah; publicly takes Belly’s hand, affirming their bond.
- Belly ConklinSits with both families at the dedication; holds Jeremiah’s hand, seen by Conrad.
- MonaShelter representative who praises Susannah’s dedication and thanks attendees.
- Mr. FisherSits in the front row; an empty seat beside him highlights Conrad’s late arrival.
- Laurel ConklinScans the room briefly but does not spot Conrad standing in back.
- Steven ConklinAttends the dedication with family, seated near Belly and Laurel.