29. Seaweed
Summary
- In the winter, Chase regularly visits Kya's shack, often spending one night each weekend with her. During their time together, they would explore the marsh, with Kya collecting items and Chase playing tunes on his harmonica.
- In early March, Kya decided to surprise Chase for his birthday by baking her first-ever caramel cake. She thought of having a candlelit dinner in her kitchen, an event that she hadn't hosted since her mother left.
- While en route to the local grocery store—Piggly Wiggly—to buy the ingredients, Kya found Chase on the dock, arms draped over a slim, blond girl named Pearl Stone. Shocked and embarrassed, Kya faced an awkward encounter with Chase and his friends.
- During the encounter, Chase introduced Kya to his friends, who reacted coolly to her and quickly exited the scene. Afterward, Chase confirmed that he would be visiting her on Sunday, as they previously arranged.
- Once inside the grocery store, Kya crossed paths with Mrs. Culpepper, a truant officer from her past. Despite wanting to flee, Kya faced her old adversary and returned Mrs. Culpepper’s stare. This symbolic encounter highlights Kya’s maturity and courage.
- Aside from buying grocery items for the picnic, Kya also purchased a local newspaper because it covered an upcoming marine laboratory near Barkley Cove. This potentially represents an opportunity for her, given her interest and knowledge in marsh ecology.
- Back home, reading the newspaper, Kya discovered an engagement announcement between Chase and Pearl Stone, causing her immense heartache. She retreated to her porch, shaken and shocked, just as Chase arrived at her shack.
- Before Chase could see her, Kya hid in the woods and watched him unsuccessfully search for her in the shack and on the beach.
- After Chase left, Kya re-emerged to feed the gulls and tried to find solid ground in the midst of her heartbreak.