When We Collided

Jonah is working in the restaurant, which is busier than it has been in months. Ethan, Naomi, Leah, Silas, Isaac, Bekah, and Mrs. Daniels are there speaking with their respective friends and family. Jonah is happy to be surrounded by his friends and family at the unveiling of the restaurant’s new menu. Ellie encourages the family to gather around for a photograph and they do so. Naomi tears up slightly after, and they all gather inside. Jonah knows that his father’s “legacy is more than the bricks and mortar” (217), and he finally feels like he has created something good, amidst all the grief.

Later that night after the last guest leaves the restaurant, Vivi surprises Jonah. Vivi apologizes to Jonah for lashing out at him at the hospital. She cuts Jonah off before he can respond. She asks Jonah to go on a walk with her and he agrees. They slowly get more comfortable with each other and Vivi tells him that her and her mom have been getting along together far better. They have been having therapy sessions that have been helpful for Vivi. Jonah tells Vivi that his mom has been attending a grief support group twice a week and has already been discussing possible family therapy sessions in the future.