Chapters 20 and 21 Summary

Jayber is bothered that Cecelia Overhold has continued to dislike him for years. Remembering the chip in his tooth, Jayber feels Cecelia always has her stinger out and feels that her troubles are someone else's fault. Cecelia pretends Jayber doesn't exist. She only wants what she does not have, and hopes each time a newcomer shows up that she can bond with someone superior to the town such as herself. Cecelia and Troy Chatham are the two loneliest people in town. However, Jayber knows that Cecelia with all her hatefulness is also part of the fabric of Port William.

Athey breaks his leg and finally leaves his farm. He and Della buy a smaller homestead and, although he is now lame, Athey keeps it perfect. Athey becomes a regular visitor at the barber shop. Jayber has always kept a certain set...