Chapter 14 Summary: Tripp's Perspective and Key Events
⚠️ 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
The chapter opens with Brynn picking up Tripp in her immaculate Volkswagen. As Tripp adjusts the seat—which is set for the much shorter Ellie—Brynn casually admits that she didn't actually speak to Mr. Solomon; she only left a message. Tripp is alarmed, realizing they are showing up unannounced. Brynn deflects, reminding him that he owes her for taking a punch from Shane. Tripp feels a pang of guilt for blaming her earlier, and the tension between them is palpable.
During the drive, Brynn updates Tripp on Ms. Kelso's rough week. First, Mr. Larkin's portrait was vandalized, and Ms. Kelso feels responsible because she didn't keep it secure. Second, someone defaced all the flyers for the memorial garden committee with angry red slashes over Mr. Larkin's face. Tripp is disturbed by this, and Brynn presses him for a reason anyone would hate Mr. Larkin that much. Tripp deflects, looking out the window.
They arrive at Mr. Solomon's house on Spruce Road. The property is in shocking disrepair: tools and debris litter the yard, an oversized blue tarp sits half-covered with ice, and the flower boxes and planters are full of dead plants. Brynn hesitates, but Tripp confirms it's his truck. They approach the front door, ring the bell, and get no answer. Brynn insists on trying the back door, and Tripp reluctantly follows.
In the backyard, they find rusted wheelbarrows and tilting planters. Brynn struggles with the gate latch, and Tripp helps her. As they open the gate, a shotgun is pointed at them. Mr. Solomon, short and white-haired, accuses them of being thieves and trespassers. Tripp identifies himself as Noah Talbot, and Mr. Solomon lowers the gun, recognizing him. Brynn introduces herself, but Mr. Solomon is curt.
Brynn explains they want to ask about plantings for a memorial garden for Mr. Larkin. Mr. Solomon refuses, saying he's not interested. When Brynn asks why not, he delivers a chilling line: “Because that son of a bitch got what he deserved.” He then goes inside and slams the door.
Key Events
-
Brynn reveals she only left a message for Mr. Solomon, not actually spoke to him, making the visit unannounced.
-
Brynn tells Tripp about the vandalism of Mr. Larkin's portrait and the defaced memorial garden flyers.
-
They arrive at Mr. Solomon's neglected house, which shows signs of decay and disrepair.
-
After no answer at the front door, they go to the back and are confronted by Mr. Solomon with a shotgun.
-
Mr. Solomon recognizes Tripp as Noah and lowers the gun.
-
Brynn asks about the memorial garden, but Mr. Solomon refuses to help.
-
Mr. Solomon states that Mr. Larkin “got what he deserved,” implying deep resentment.
Character Development
Tripp is increasingly rattled by Brynn's presence and her probing questions. He feels guilt for blaming her for the punch, and his internal monologue reveals a lingering sense of unresolved wrongdoing. When faced with the shotgun, his thoughts flash to the people he'd miss and the apologies he never made, underscoring his buried regret. His reaction to Mr. Solomon's hostility—trying to defuse the situation—shows a maturity that contrasts with his earlier defensiveness.
Brynn is determined and pushy, willing to bend the truth to get what she wants. She shows empathy for Ms. Kelso, but her focus on the mystery is relentless. Her physical reaction to the gun—grabbing Tripp's hand and going rigid—reveals her vulnerability, but she quickly recovers and presses Mr. Solomon for answers. Her dropping Tripp's hand as soon as the danger passes hints at her emotional guardedness.
Mr. Solomon is a shadow of his former self. His once-pristine garden is now a wasteland, and he greets visitors with a shotgun. His refusal to discuss the memorial garden and his final statement about Larkin suggest a deep, personal grudge that may be connected to the larger mystery.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
-
Deception and Unannounced Visits: Brynn's lie about calling Mr. Solomon sets the stage for a tense confrontation. The theme of hidden truths is reinforced by the characters' own evasions.
-
Neglect as a Symbol: Mr. Solomon's decaying garden mirrors his emotional state and his refusal to engage with the past. The dead plants and debris symbolize his abandonment of the very thing that once defined him.
-
Hostility Toward Larkin: The vandalism of the portrait and flyers, combined with Mr. Solomon's outburst, establishes a pattern of animosity toward the deceased teacher. This suggests that Larkin was not universally beloved, complicating the narrative.
-
Unresolved Guilt: Tripp's internal turmoil—his thoughts of apologies never made—echoes the broader theme of guilt that permeates the novel. Mr. Solomon's anger may also stem from guilt or a sense of justice.
-
The Memorial Garden as a Point of Contention: The garden is meant to honor Larkin, but it becomes a flashpoint for those who resent him. It symbolizes the struggle between remembrance and retribution.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter is a turning point in the investigation. It introduces a new suspect—or at least a person with a clear motive—in Mr. Solomon. His outright statement that Larkin “got what he deserved” suggests he may have been involved in Larkin's death or knows who was. The chapter also deepens Tripp's internal conflict, hinting that he may have secrets related to Larkin. The deterioration of Mr. Solomon's property and his aggressive behavior add a layer of menace, raising the stakes for Brynn and Tripp. Additionally, the chapter strengthens the bond between the two protagonists, as they navigate a dangerous situation together.
Study Questions and Answers
- Why does Brynn lie about having spoken to Mr. Solomon, and what does this reveal about her character?
Brynn lies because she wants to ensure Tripp will accompany her, and she believes that an unannounced visit might be more effective than waiting for a return call. This reveals her determination and willingness to bend the truth to achieve her goals, even if it puts others in uncomfortable positions.
- What does Mr. Solomon's reaction to the memorial garden suggest about his relationship with Mr. Larkin?
Mr. Solomon's refusal to help, combined with his final statement that Larkin “got what he deserved,” suggests he harbors deep resentment toward Larkin. This could stem from a personal grievance or a belief that Larkin was responsible for something terrible. It implies that Mr. Solomon may have a motive for wanting Larkin dead.
- How does Tripp's reaction to the shotgun reveal his internal state?
When faced with the gun, Tripp's thoughts immediately turn to the people he would miss and the apologies he never made. This reveals his deep-seated guilt and regret, suggesting that he carries a heavy burden of unresolved issues. His apology to Brynn in that moment also shows his vulnerability and his recognition of his own past mistakes.