Chapter 30
Summary
- The chapter opens in March 1960 at the St. Ives pub where the atmosphere is vibrant with Irish music and dancing.
- Hazel feels dizzy from dancing with Harry and runs out for fresh air, ending up on the beach with him.
- On the beach, Hazel battles her old feelings for Harry, recognizes the danger of being alone with him, and refuses his appeal to stay, fearing the fallout.
- Hazel wakes up with an emotional hangover, reflecting on the time spent with Harry and recognizing they have separate lives and obligations now.
- Despite Kelty's reluctance, Hazel insists on returning home, admitting that while they spent the night talking on the beach, it didn't change the past and only her guilt for her partner Barnaby.
- In the car, Kelty and Hazel converse about the beautiful surroundings and Hazel's unresolved feelings following her encounter with Harry.
- Back home, Hazel and Barnaby have a tense conversation about Hazel's history with Harry and whether it has influenced her current actions and motivations.
- Barnaby, influenced by whiskey and finding old letters, confronts Hazel about her continued feelings for Harry, leading to a heated discussion.
- Hazel admits that she still loves Harry but in a different way than she loves Barnaby.
- An argument arises over Hazel's obsession with the mysterious book "Whisperwood" and her belief in her sister Flora's possible survival, contrasting with Barnaby's skepticism.
- Despite their grief over different losses, Barnaby agrees to support Hazel's quest for answers, out of love and concern.