Chapter summaries This Could Be Us Kennedy Ryan

This Could Be Us Chapter 15: Soledad Reclaims Her Power

⚠️ 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

Soledad hosts her friends Hendrix and Yasmen in her living room, where they share a charcuterie board and wine. The mood is celebratory after Soledad destroyed Edward's man cave and destroyed his possessions in a fit of rage. She mentions learning of Edward's sexually transmitted infection, which pushed her over the edge. The conversation turns to Soledad's future. She recalls a history lesson from her grandmother about a 1918 ordinance in Greenville, South Carolina, that required Black women to work outside the home, forcing them to serve white families. This injustice shaped Soledad's desire to be a stay-at-home mother and homemaker.

Hendrix and Yasmen encourage Soledad to monetize her domestic skills by becoming an influencer or content creator. Hendrix, who manages talent, offers to connect her with brands. Soledad is intrigued but unsure. Judah Cross arrives with news from CalPot: the company will not pursue her property in exchange for the USB drive containing Edward’s financial records. Delores, the woman Soledad earlier upset, advocated for her. Judah confirms the FBI will unfreeze assets. Soledad reveals she plans to divorce Edward. They share a charged moment, acknowledging mutual attraction but agreeing the timing is wrong. Judah leaves to pick up his sons.

Hendrix and Yasmen tease Soledad about Judah. Soledad considers the void in her life and the need to support herself. She decides to accept Hendrix’s suggestion and build a career as a content creator, declaring that she will make an enterprise from her home.

Key Events

  • Soledad, Hendrix, and Yasmen enjoy charcuterie and discuss Soledad’s destruction of Edward’s possessions.
  • Soledad recounts the 1918 Greenville ordinance requiring Black women to work.
  • Hendrix and Yasmen urge Soledad to become an influencer or content creator.
  • Judah brings news that CalPot will not take the house if Soledad turns over the USB drive.
  • Judah reveals Delores supported Soledad, and that he was prepared to protect her.
  • Soledad confirms she will divorce Edward.
  • Soledad and Judah acknowledge their attraction but agree the timing is wrong.
  • After Judah leaves, Soledad decides to pursue a career as a content creator.

Character Development

Soledad shows resilience and a reclaiming of agency. She moves from rage to strategic planning, embracing the idea of independence. Her willingness to consider a new career and to divorce Edward marks significant growth.

Hendrix and Yasmen provide loyal support. Hendrix’s practical advice about content creation opens a new path for Soledad, and both friends validate her anger while encouraging forward momentum.

Judah Cross emerges as a protector and romantic interest. His careful handling of CalPot and his gentle touch reveal a depth of care that contrasts sharply with Edward’s betrayal. He respects Soledad’s need to stand on her own.

Themes, Symbols, or Motifs

  • Historical Injustice and Agency: The 1918 Greenville ordinance illustrates how Black women’s labor choices were controlled. Soledad reclaims that history by choosing her own path—first as a homemaker, now as an entrepreneur.
  • Reclaiming Space: The destroyed man cave and Soledad’s plan to turn it into a “she shed” symbolize her taking back control of her home and her life.
  • Friendship as Foundation: Hendrix and Yasmen’s presence grounds Soledad, offering both emotional and practical support.
  • Attraction Versus Self-Reliance: The tension between Soledad’s draw to Judah and her determination to rebuild independently highlights the chapter’s central conflict.
  • DIY to DIM (Do It Myself): Soledad’s shift from domestic labor to a paid content creation enterprise reframes her skills as a source of financial independence.

Why This Chapter Matters

Chapter 15 is a turning point for Soledad. It resolves the immediate threat of losing her house and sets her on a new professional trajectory. The historical context deepens her character and explains her values. The romantic tension with Judah is heightened but deliberately postponed, emphasizing that Soledad’s journey of self-reclamation takes priority. The chapter underscores themes of resilience, friendship, and the courage to rebuild from the ground up.

Study Questions and Answers

  1. What historical event does Soledad share, and why is it significant to her?
    She shares a 1918 ordinance in Greenville, South Carolina, that required Black women to work outside the home. It shaped her belief that staying home with her children was a hard-won privilege and influenced her desire to never work for someone else.

  2. How does Judah’s news from CalPot change Soledad’s immediate situation?
    CalPot will not take her house or pursue her legally if she turns over the USB drive. Her assets will be unfrozen, and the court can help with mortgage payments until Edward is convicted. This gives her breathing room to plan her future.

  3. What does Soledad decide to do for her future career, and who encourages her?
    She decides to become a content creator and influencer, monetizing her domestic skills. Hendrix encourages her by offering brand connections and validates the idea as a viable business.

Navigation