Chapter 33
Contains spoilersOverview
Alice calls Elyse to withdraw her photograph from the gallery show and is surprised when Elyse supports the decision, reinforcing Alice’s creative awakening. Alice and Charlie spend carefree days together, then attend Percy and Sam’s large party where Alice photographs guests, navigates public dynamics with Charlie, and feels genuinely included. At the party, Alice meets friends and acquaintances, including Delilah, whose tipsy comments hint at Charlie’s past, briefly unsettling Alice before Charlie dismisses it as history.
Summary
On Tuesday, July 22, Alice phones gallerist Elyse to withdraw her photograph from the upcoming show. Instead of anger, Elyse is thrilled and encourages Alice to follow her intuition, inviting her to still attend the opening and asking to see new work when Alice is ready. Alice realizes she feels creatively reawakened and commits to exploring a new direction.
In the days that follow, Alice and Charlie spend time together on the lake and at a private boulder near the boathouse. Their intimacy deepens with lingering make-outs, though they deliberately avoid sex to protect the fragile rhythm of their summer relationship. Evenings include cards and puzzles with Nan and late-night talks after Nan sleeps.
On Saturday, Percy and Sam host a large party that draws many friends and family. Alice arms herself with a polished, professional look and her cameras, acknowledging the “mask” it provides. Nan encourages her to be herself and to consider calling John Kalinski while she has privacy.
Arriving at the crowded, lantern-lit house, Alice is welcomed by Percy, whose excitement about impending motherhood helps ease Alice’s anxiety. On the deck, Alice spots Charlie looking sharp; his dazzled reaction to her appearance steadies her nerves. Alice photographs the gathering, noting affectionate moments between Sam and Percy that mirror her earlier candid photo of them, and she enjoys feeling included rather than on the sidelines.
While chatting about Percy’s manuscript, Charlie checks in on Alice, offering a drink; she declines alcohol while working. They tour the buzzing living room with a DJ, a themed cocktail bar, and family photos, including snapshots from Sam and Percy’s youth and wedding. Alice notices Harrison speaking with Percy’s friend Chantal and a striking redhead, Delilah.
Delilah approaches, introducing herself and teasing that she once had a crush on Charlie. Misreading Alice and Charlie’s closeness, she jokes that Charlie looks at Alice “like you’re some kind of snack.” Alice deflects by calling Charlie a good friend. Chantal pulls an inebriated Delilah away, and when Alice asks, Charlie labels the encounter simply as “history,” closing the topic.
Who Appears
- Alice Everly
photographer and narrator; withdraws her photo from the show, feels creatively reawakened, photographs Percy and Sam’s party, navigates public dynamics with Charlie.
- Charlie Florek
Alice’s summer partner; spends carefree days with Alice, is affectionate at the party, downplays Delilah’s comments as past “history.”
- Nana (Nan)
Alice’s grandmother; encourages Alice to be herself and consider calling John Kalinski before the party.
- Elyse
gallerist; supports Alice’s decision to withdraw and asks to see new work.
- Percy
friend; pregnant host of the party with Sam, bonds with Alice, appears in candid moments mirroring earlier photos.
- Sam
Percy’s husband and Charlie’s brother; co-hosts the party, shares affectionate moments with Percy.
- Harrison
Alice’s former date; present at the party, seen chatting with guests.
- Chantal
Percy’s best friend; present at the party, escorts Delilah away when she overdrinks.
- Delilah Mason
Percy’s friend (new); tipsily references an old crush on Charlie and assumes Alice and Charlie are together; her remarks hint at Charlie’s past.