Chapter 9 Summary

In Dublin, Maureen and Sean Ryan have a heated discussion about their daughter Fiona. Maureen is touched that Fiona called to let them know she was all right, even though they hadn't even known she was there. Sean, however, is unbending. He cares little whether or not she comes home for their silver anniversary; he thinks she would spend the entire time hanging on the arm of her drug addict boyfriend, exclaiming that they don't understand him. Maureen has invited Fiona's best friend Barbara over to talk. They both miss Fiona and want to see her again. Barbara proposes that they each write her a letter, asking if she and Shane will be home in time for the wedding anniversary or Christmas. When her parents protest, Barbara explains that she has a feeling that their relationship will not last, and suggests that if...