Chapters XX - XXII Summary

In Chapter Twenty, Thérèse and Laurent happily prepare for their wedding. Madame Raquin gives Laurent all her savings for wedding presents. Laurent's fine clothes bother the old wound from Camille's bite. The wedding party assembles at the shop. The wedding and feast are very serious and solemn. Grivet toasts to the couple's future offspring. The idea alarms Thérèse and Laurent. Thérèse and Laurent go back to their room. Laurent is bewildered to hear the announcement that his wife is ready for him.

Chapter Twenty-one describes Thérèse and Laurent's wedding night. Laurent comes into the bedroom, and Thérèse does not even turn to look at him. He kisses her bare shoulder, and Thérèse finds his touch repulsive. He sits in front of the fire across from...