Chapter Twenty-Five: Alana — Asbestos, Memory Boxes, and Forced Proximity
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Alana wakes up energized for the day ahead. She drops Cami off at summer camp, and the two bond over a Dreamland princess song. When she returns to the house, Cal offers to help with dishes. Alana feels a flash of jealousy when Cal mentions “Iris,” but quickly learns Iris is Declan’s wife. Their playful banter continues during a walkthrough with contractor Ryder Smith. Ryder discovers asbestos in the kitchen walls, forcing an evacuation. Cal insists Alana and Cami stay at his guesthouse for safety. Alana resists, fearing she cannot control her attraction to him. Later, while packing, she finds a shoebox of memories that includes an old photo of her and Cal holding hands. Cami spots the photo and asks if Alana likes Cal. Alana deflects, saying they were “just friends,” but Cami’s disappointed expression makes Alana doubt.
Key Events
- Alana and Cami enjoy a playful morning drive to summer camp, listening to a Dreamland princess song.
- Cal helps Alana wash dishes after finishing the attic.
- A brief jealousy misunderstanding over “Iris” is resolved when Cal clarifies she is Declan’s wife.
- Contractor Ryder Smith surveys the house; they discuss flooring options (original hardwood vs. marble).
- Ryder discovers asbestos in the kitchen walls, requiring a three-week abatement process.
- Cal orders Alana and Cami to move into the guesthouse for their safety.
- Alana initially refuses, citing the risk of giving in to their chemistry.
- While packing, Alana retrieves a shoebox filled with mementos, including a photo of her and Cal from six years ago.
- Cami asks if Alana likes Cal; Alana claims they were only friends, but Cami’s reaction hints at her hope for more.
Character Development
Alana
Alana’s internal conflict deepens. She knows staying in the guesthouse with Cal will test her resolve, yet she feels drawn to him. Her discovery of the memory box reveals that she still holds onto their shared past. The moment with Cami underscores her protective instinct: she does not want her daughter to hope for a relationship that may not last. Alana also confronts her own dreams—traveling and opening a bakery—and acknowledges self-doubt as the main obstacle.
Cal
Cal shows a caring, protective side when he insists on the guesthouse after the asbestos finding. He teases Alana to lighten the mood, but his concern is genuine. His playful remark about Alana not being able to control herself reveals his confidence—and his hope that she will give in.
Cami
Even off-page for most of the chapter, Cami’s presence influences Alana’s decisions. Her disappointed question about Cal shows she is perceptive and wishes for a family unit.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
Forced Proximity
The asbestos discovery forces Alana and Cal into the same living space. This device amplifies the romantic tension and challenges their agreement to be “just friends.”
Memory Box / Shoebox
The shoebox of mementos symbolizes Alana’s inability to fully let go of the past. It contains hospital bands, photos, and ticket stubs—physical reminders of her history with Cal and of her own limited dreams.
Jealousy and Miscommunication
Alana’s instant jealousy over “Iris” highlights her unacknowledged feelings. Cal’s teasing enjoyment of her reaction shows he still cares deeply.
Dreams vs. Self-Doubt
Alana’s internal voice wrestles with her ambition to travel and open a bakery. She recognizes that only her own insecurity stops her from pursuing her goals.
Why This Chapter Matters
Chapter Twenty-Five is a turning point that forces Alana and Cal into intimate proximity. The asbestos discovery removes their ability to keep physical distance, setting the stage for emotional breakthroughs. Alana’s confrontation with the memory box ties her past to her present choices, while Cami’s question plants a seed of possibility. This chapter also deepens Alana’s character by revealing her dreams and fears—key for her eventual arc.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Alana initially refuse to stay at Cal’s guesthouse?
Alana refuses because she doubts her ability to control her physical attraction to Cal. She admits that being near him makes her want to touch him, and she fears that living together would undermine their friendship pact.
2. What does the shoebox of memories reveal about Alana’s emotional state?
The shoebox reveals that Alana has held onto keepsakes from her entire life, especially moments connected to Cal. It shows she has not fully moved on and still cherishes their shared history, even while trying to convince herself otherwise.
3. How does Cami’s question about Cal’s relationship with Alana affect the chapter’s tension?
Cami’s direct question forces Alana to lie about their connection. Cami’s visible disappointment suggests she hopes for a family with Cal, adding emotional stakes. Alana becomes aware that her actions around Cal could affect her daughter’s hopes, raising the cost of any romantic involvement.