Contents
Chapter Thirty-Six: Russ
Overview
Russ visits his parents for a promised family talk that becomes a one-on-one with his father. His dad, newly attending GA, apologizes, claims weeks without betting, and vows counseling and repayment. A wary Russ stays cautious through a tense family lunch where Ethan seems strung out, then returns to Aurora’s steady support.
Summary
In the morning, Russ and Aurora banter in bed before he leaves for a difficult meeting with his family. Aurora offers reassurance, promises to be available, and jokes about staking her claim on him with a jersey, grounding Russ before he goes.
At his parents’ house, Russ expects a group discussion but is left alone with his father. Russ’s father says he hasn’t gambled since visiting camp, is attending Gamblers Anonymous, will begin counseling, and aims to make amends. He thanks Russ for confronting him in the hospital, admits pride and denial, and promises practical steps, including debt advice and repaying the money he took. Russ listens, cautiously hopeful but guarded.
Over lunch with the family, Ethan fills space by discussing his band’s new record deal. Afterward, outside by Russ’s truck, Ethan looks unwell and evasive. Russ challenges him, worried Ethan might be using, but Ethan deflects, insisting money will fix things, and walks away.
Back home, Russ finds Aurora struggling cheerfully with a tent and inviting him to camp by the fire pit. She offers him space and comfort; Russ asks for time to process the day. They reconnect physically and emotionally, with Aurora anchoring him as he absorbs his father’s promises and Ethan’s worrying state.
Who Appears
- RussNarrator; visits family for reconciliation, hears father’s amends, worries about Ethan, returns to Aurora’s support.
- Aurora CallaghanProvides reassurance, playful banter, plans backyard camping, gives Russ space while grounding him emotionally.
- Russ’s fatherApologizes, claims weeks without gambling, attends GA, plans counseling, debt help, and to repay Russ.
- EthanPushes Russ into the meeting, talks band deal, appears strung out, deflects concerns, promises money will fix things.
- Russ’s motherGreets Russ warmly, joins family lunch, has been talking with father during his attempted recovery.