Chapter 42

Summary

• The protagonist and Evelyn discuss why Evelyn never protested against Don's (her abuser) role in the film. Evelyn describes not being entirely certain if her influence would result in Don's dismissal and empathizes with his struggling career and personal life.
• Evelyn acknowledges the complexity of her relationship with Don and emphasizes her inclination towards compassion, even towards an individual who had abused her.
• Apologizing for misunderstanding Evelyn's situation, the protagonist is educated on the difference between forgiveness and absolution by Evelyn. She clarifies that Don had ceased to be a threat to her, while she felt more powerful and unafraid.
• Evelyn reveals that her representatives set a meeting with Don, there's hesitancy from Celia (Evelyn's supporter) but also trust from Harry. The meeting place is switched from a bar at the Beverly Hills Hotel to Canter's Deli, where Evelyn sees Don for the first time in fifteen years.