It's Not Summer Without You

The summer after Susannah's death is a difficult one for Belly. Susannah was more than just a family friend; she was like a second mother to Belly, offering her warmth, guidance, and unconditional love. The loss of Susannah leaves a gaping hole in Belly's heart, and she struggles to come to terms with the reality that she will never see her again. The grief is overwhelming, and Belly finds herself constantly thinking about Susannah, reminiscing about the times they spent together at Cousins Beach.

Belly's sorrow is compounded by the fact that Susannah's death has also deeply affected Conrad and Jeremiah, Susannah's sons. Conrad, in particular, is struggling to cope with the loss of his mother, and his emotional turmoil creates a rift between him and Belly. Belly feels helpless as she watches Conrad push everyone away, including herself. She wants to be there for him, to offer him comfort and support, but she doesn't know how to reach him in his grief.

The summer is also marked by a sense of guilt for Belly. She feels guilty for not being able to do more for Susannah during her illness, and for not being able to alleviate the pain that Conrad and Jeremiah are going through. This guilt weighs heavily on her, adding to her emotional burden. Belly's grief is a central theme in the story, and it shapes her actions and decisions throughout the summer. It is a poignant reminder of the deep bond she shared with Susannah and the impact that Susannah's death has had on her life.

As the summer progresses, Belly begins to find ways to cope with her grief. She leans on her friends and family for support, and she starts to open up about her feelings. Through this process, Belly learns that it is okay to grieve, and that healing takes time. She also realizes that Susannah's memory will always be a part of her, and that she can honor Susannah by cherishing the moments they shared and by being there for Conrad and Jeremiah in their time of need.