Chapters 17-18, Ordinary People Summary

Chapter 17. While having lunch with Conrad, Cal mentions that he might like to start seeing Dr. Berger—as a patient. Cal meets with Berger and is initially ill at ease. He thinks it's because of Berger's unorthodox looks, but soon realizes that it's his eyes that make him uncomfortable. Cal mentions his guilt over not seeing the suicide attempt coming. Berger is surprised to find that both parents were at home when Conrad cut his wrists. As he's telling Berger about that night, he thinks about Beth's reactions at the time. He tells Berger that he thinks Beth can't forgive Conrad but he's not sure for what.

Chapter 18. Conrad begins finals with an English exam. Though there are only 3 questions on the test, his mind is blank. When he finally gets home after taking Jeannine to...