47 pages 1 hour read

Jonathan Escoffery

If I Survive You

Fiction | Short Story Collection | Adult | Published in 2022

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“If I Survive You”Chapter Summaries & Analyses

“If I Survive You” Summary

The tables have turned. Their father is now frustrated with Delano rather than Trelawny. Delano has sunk into a depression after the breakup of his marriage, his children’s move to California, the accidental death of his employee, and the slow decline of his musical career. Trelawny speculates that Delano has not paid rent to their father in years.

Topper asks Trelawny if he would like to buy the house. Noting its state of ill repair, Trelawny declines. Shortly after Topper makes the offer, Delano informs his brother that the lawsuit against him has been settled, and insurance is covering everything. He and his most recent girlfriend, Sadie, have decided to start a band. He tells Trelawny that he’s kicking him out. Trelawny is incredulous and tells his brother that their father asked him to kick Delano out. Delano smirks; he has always been the favorite son and does not believe Trelawny. In this moment, Trelawny reconsiders buying the house.

Trelawny’s girlfriend, Jelly, has moved in with him and Delano, and although she points out that the house is in a state of disrepair, is sinking, and probably isn’t actually worth the low price that Topper is asking, the two discuss trying to buy it.