Who is Suzanne from Half of Paradise: A Novel and what is their importance?

Broussard and his girlfriend, Suzanne, were childhood sweethearts. It wasn't until she went away to college that there relationship changed. Now, years later, Suzanne has returned to New Orleans and is making a living as a painter .... a life that is subsidized by her father. After her arrical, Suzanne and Broussard pick up where they left off.... her presence helps to stabilize Broussard.