Mad Honey
by Jodi Picoult
Year
2022
Pages
509
Contents
Olivia 10
Summary
- The chapter follows Olivia as she anxiously awaits a verdict in an intense trial.
- Olivia reflects on her past beliefs about marriage vows and the importance of being present for one’s spouse during times of sickness.
- She and others, including Asher, Jordan, Selena, and Sam, wait in the courthouse for the jury’s decision.
- Throughout their wait, family dynamics and personal coping mechanisms are revealed, such as reading and discussing books.
- Olivia remembers suggesting books to read during car rides with her ex-husband, which were ignored.
- After hours of waiting, the judge checks with the jury, who indicates they are not close to a verdict, leading to another day of waiting.
- The tension between Jordan and Olivia is palpable the next day, as Asher contemplates the possibility of a guilty verdict.
- Jordan tries to reassure Asher by sharing his legal experience and optimism for the case.
- The day concludes with drinks at Olivia's home, suggesting a method of coping with the stress of the situation.
- Olivia encounters a skunk incident at her beehives and then shares an unexpected intimate moment with Mike Newcomb.
- The following morning, the jury reaches a verdict, and everyone braces for the outcome.
- Asher shows visible signs of fear and stress as they await the verdict in the courtroom.
- The jury returns a not guilty verdict, resulting in a mixture of relief and celebration, as well as grief for the other party.
- Post-verdict, Jordan offers ongoing support to Asher and comically comments on Olivia’s recent romantic encounter, implying he is aware.
- Olivia engages in a profound moment of rest, succumbing to the exhaustion of the trial’s events.
- In an act of closure, Asher seals up the treehouse that represents his childhood, taking a step towards moving on.