Chapter 17

Contains spoilers

Overview

Andrew and Nina learn from a fertility specialist that pregnancy isn’t possible, shattering their plans for a new baby. Nina unleashes her frustration on Millie, while Andrew confides his disappointment and recruits Millie to secure tickets to Showdown to cheer Nina. The family dynamic tightens around Millie’s growing involvement.

Summary

Andrew and Nina head to a fertility specialist after a week of hopeful planning, even discussing converting the guest room into a nursery. While they are gone, Millie watches Cecelia, who acts out over a “bologna” versus “abalone” sandwich and throws food on the carpet.

Andrew and Nina return visibly distraught. When Millie asks if everything is okay, Nina snaps, berates Millie for the small mess, and threatens her job before storming upstairs with a headache, signaling that the appointment went badly.

Alone with Millie, Andrew admits the consultation confirmed Nina will not get pregnant. He is disappointed but resolves to be strong for Nina, acknowledging how much he loves Cecelia while mourning the loss of his dream for another child.

Seeking a way to lift Nina’s spirits, Andrew asks Millie to get dates from Nina and book orchestra seats to the show Showdown. He thanks Millie, apologizes for Nina’s temperament, and Millie quietly commits to doing what she can to keep the peace and her job.

Who Appears

  • Millie
    Maid and narrator; babysits Cecelia, endures Nina’s anger, and agrees to book Showdown tickets.
  • Andrew Winchester
    Returns from failed fertility consult devastated; confides in Millie and asks her to cheer Nina with show tickets.
  • Nina Winchester
    Crushed by the fertility results; lashes out at Millie and withdraws to her room with a headache.
  • Cecelia
    Acts out over a sandwich, making a mess before disappearing when her parents return.
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