Chapter 39

Summary

• The chapter takes place in 1974 on the author's thirty-sixth birthday. She and her friends, Harry, Celia, and John, go to an expensive restaurant called the Palace. They pose for pictures, understanding that they would probably end up in some tabloid.
• During the dinner, they toast the author and appreciate her for the person she is. Later, at the end of the night, Harry helps her put on her jacket.
• Harry jokingly points out that their seven-year marriage has been her longest. He then starts a conversation about them having a baby. The author admits she has been contemplating the same thought.
• Considering the circumstances and their age, they both understand the risks and obstacles but decide to go ahead with the plan. They resolve to have a conversation about this with their other two friends, Celia and John.
• The author reveals that she would want a biological child rather than resorting to adoption to avoid any controversies. Harry agrees with her and humorously admits a small part of him has always wanted to bed her.
• They laugh it off, leaving the information private to themselves and agree to move forward with the plan. They decide to start the journey of parenthood together.