Forever, Interrupted: A Novel

Elsie and Ben take a walk along Venice Beach. He tells her how his feelings about Newport Beach, where his mom lives, changed after his dad died. He used to like visiting, but Susan became obsessed with redecorating the house after she lost her husband. Elsie again asks him when he’ll tell Susan about their relationship. He promises to do so soon as he doesn’t like hiding the truth from her. Elsie secretly worries about finally meeting her because she fears that Susan won’t like her.

Elsie arranges a leave of absence from work with Lyle, then goes out for breakfast with Ana and reveals her plan to spend a few weeks in Newport Beach with Susan. Ana offers to watch her house and mail while she’s gone.

After Elsie arrives at Susan’s, Susan gives her a tour of the house and helps her get settled in the guest room. She doesn’t want her staying in Ben’s room because she thinks it’ll make it harder for Elsie. She then tells Elsie her plans for the evenings: they’ll get massages, order food, and watch movies together. She also reminds Elsie that while she’s staying with her, she can cry whenever she wants.