Contents
Chapter 17
Overview
Jasper details the collapse of his first marriage to Samantha, revealing her push for an open relationship, his discovery of her cheating, and his decision to leave, divorce, and move to Vegas. He admits to ongoing toxic calls and telling Samantha about Eloise, upsetting Eloise before she forgives him. They agree to face Samantha and Jasper’s parents at the Italy wedding, and Eloise gifts Jasper a ring.
Summary
Eloise reels as Jasper explains his first marriage to Samantha: Samantha reframed cheating as an open marriage and brought a man into their bed. Jasper nearly retaliated with another woman, then left, returning the next day to demand a divorce. Samantha resisted and lied that Jasper had slept with the other woman; he moved out and sold the house.
Jasper describes years of distance from his cold, wealthy parents and how Samantha still calls, dredging up memories and trying to guilt him back. He confesses that in toxic retaliation he shared sexual details about Eloise, which devastates her. After he apologizes and affirms he only sees Eloise, she forgives him with a warning about privacy.
They discuss the upcoming Italy wedding invite as a dare from Samantha. Jasper wants to face Samantha and prove to himself that leaving was right. He’s told both Samantha and his parents that he is married to Eloise; his father replied with a curt email.
Seeking solidarity, Eloise gifts Jasper a titanium ring for the wedding. Overcome, Jasper thanks her, and they make love. By morning, the ring isn’t on Jasper’s finger, but they remain committed to attending the wedding together.
Who Appears
- Eloise EdenNarrator; processes Jasper’s past, is hurt he told Samantha about them, forgives him, and gifts him a ring.
- Jasper ValeRecounts Samantha’s cheating, his departure, divorce, move to Vegas, and admits to toxic post-divorce calls and oversharing.
- SamanthaJasper’s ex-wife; pushed open marriage, cheated, lied about Jasper, still calls to manipulate and provoke.
- Jasper’s parentsWealthy and emotionally distant; father sends terse email about meeting Eloise at the wedding.
- DanJasper’s late mentor; his death preceded Jasper’s move to Vegas and break from the past.