Chapters 31-Epilogue, Ordinary People Summary

Chapter 31. In Chapter 31, Beth decides to leave the family. She tells Cal that he has changed too much and that she can't stand the way he looks at her. She refuses to tell Conrad—she leaves that to Cal. Cal has tried to get her to go to counseling, but she is concerned with what it will look like. The few people they've told are shocked, as they always appeared to be the perfect couple. Cal still loves her, but he also knows now that love isn't enough. He feels she pushes people away and he doesn't understand it.

Cal tells Conrad that Beth has gone on a trip. When Conrad asks why Cal didn't go, the pieces start coming together. Cal decides to sell the house, but he can't bring himself to say the word...