Part 2: Chapters 14-17 Summary

In chapter 14, Nora becomes a teenager and her relationship with her mother begins to become tense. Around this same time, Harriet has a panic attack while riding on a bus. Harriet stops at a bar and has a few drinks. Within a few hours, Harriet realizes that she feels better than she has since Avel's death when she is drinking. When Harriet comes home drunk, Patty Jane is unhappy with her behavior, but Harriet refuses to react.

In chapter 15, Harriet continues to drink, beginning earlier and earlier in the day until she begins leaving work minutes after arriving. Harriet and Patty Jane argue about Harriet's drinking until finally Patty Jane tells Harriet not to come home again.

In chapter 16, Harriet moves in with a friend, but is quickly asked to leave. Patty Jane thinks of Harriet on Thanksgiving. Harriet...