57 pages • 1 hour read
The Younger Wife
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Chapters 38-52Chapter Summaries & Analyses
Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses rape, sexual content, graphic violence, emotional abuse, physical abuse, illness, death, and pregnancy loss.
Chapter 38 Summary: “Tully”
On auction day for Tully’s house, Stephen arrives with Heather and Rachel. Tully is anxious, thinking about Rachel’s recent disclosure that she was raped at 16. The auctioneer’s pitch fails to generate interest.
Tully spots Sophie, the shop owner who caught her shoplifting. Sophie makes one low, insulting bid and wins the house. Afterward, Sophie’s sister remarks on getting the house “for a steal,” confirming for Tully that her shoplifting is now gossip.
Chapter 39 Summary: “Rachel”
That evening, Rachel and Darcy eat on a blanket on her floor, share wine, and have sex. Rachel feels safe and comfortable. Afterward, Darcy asks why she never told anyone about the rape. His question makes her reconsider the secrecy she has maintained.
Chapter 40 Summary: “Tully”
Days after the auction, Tully shops at a supermarket, stressed by the disappointing sale and community gossip. She feels the urge to steal a bottle of vanilla extract. Recalling her therapist’s strategies, she instead drops the bottle, smashing it. The sound jolts her, and the urge eases. She feels pride in her restraint.
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