Hollis and Laura's New Direction

This flow follows Hollis's return from travel, his unexpected commitment to Laura, and his adjustment to a more settled life.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

A Gift From Abroad

A Gift From Abroad A distant brother Hollis travels through Europe and sends Auden a deliberately tacky picture frame with a photograph of himself. The gift reflects his easy charm and the distance between the siblings. An unexpected meaning Hollis explains that the frame is meant for many future best times, not one fixed memory. His offhand idea gives Auden an image of a life that might still expand.

The Sudden Homecoming

The Sudden Homecoming Love changes the itinerary Hollis returns home earlier than expected, saying that he has fallen in love with Laura. He describes her as a scientist he met while traveling and presents the decision as an exciting turn in his life. A family in motion His return changes the household again, bringing a new partner into the already strained family. Auden watches him speak as if a major life change can be both impulsive and certain.

An Unlikely Pair

An Unlikely Pair First impressions Laura appears serious and reserved, and her manner recalls Victoria to Auden. The resemblance alarms Auden and her parents before anyone has learned much about Laura. A different perspective Laura is methodical where Hollis is spontaneous, but he seems drawn to precisely that contrast. His family must decide whether their discomfort comes from real incompatibility or from unfamiliarity.

Work and Commitment

Work and Commitment A new daily rhythm Hollis takes a bank job and begins considering a more conventional future with Laura. The person who once wandered between countries now appears willing to build a routine. Family reactions Victoria fears that Laura will diminish Hollis's adventurous spirit, while Hollis sees the job as a useful change. His choices complicate his family's fixed expectations of who he is.

A Future Still Open

A Future Still Open A relationship taking shape Hollis and Laura continue toward marriage, while Auden learns that his return has not erased his impulsive humor. The relationship is moving forward without needing to look like the family expected. A revised family story Hollis's life offers a counterexample to the claim that people never change. He remains himself while taking on commitments that once seemed unlikely.

The summer before Hollis comes home

Late in Auden's Colby summer

The day Hollis introduces Laura to the family

The weeks after Hollis and Laura return

After Auden leaves Colby for college