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.