Chapter 17
Summary
- The chapter takes place in March 1960 with Hazel walking to Binsey to visit Bridie for the first time in twenty years, regretting breaking her promise not to leave her.
- During her walk, Hazel nostalgically observes the springtime landscape and contemplates her unplanned visit, wishing she had brought some token or made a phone call.
- Hazel recounts her morning routine with Barnaby, who is curious about her plans for "the parcel," a collection of illustrations that are apparently worth a fortune.
- Arriving at Bridie’s cottage, Hazel is filled with memories and hesitates before reuniting with Bridie, who recognizes her and is overcome with emotion.
- Bridie warmly welcomes Hazel into her home, which is unchanged and still carries the comforting scents and sights of Hazel's past.
- Hazel avoids entering the room she shared with Flora but learns from Bridie that she is welcome to when she's ready.
- Bridie explains that she couldn’t seek out Hazel due to a conversation with Hazel's mother, which was about giving Hazel time to heal.
- Hazel discovers Bridie is married to Mr. Nolan, the pub owner, which shocks her as it was unexpected.
- Hazel apologizes to Bridie, feeling responsible for ruining the lives of those around her, especially after Flora’s disappearance.
- Bridie refutes Hazel's sense of blame, discussing the investigators’ questions and the gossip surrounding her missing lover and Harry's father.
- Bridie reveals that her "husband" was actually her lover who returned to his own family, leaving Bridie with Harry, who grew up barely knowing him.
- Bridie tells Hazel that Harry wasn’t unfairly singled out by the investigations, suggesting that Hazel confronts her own guilt.
- Hazel learns that Harry is now at an artist colony in St. Ives, where Bridie encourages Hazel to seek him out and ask her questions.
- Hazel reflects on her need to face her own challenges without a knight to save her.
- The chapter ends with Hazel beginning to tell Bridie the story of Whisperwood, a magical land she created for Flora.