Summary

In Chapter 17, Ellie met with Larry. He explained that he had had “to turn off the osprey cam” because of the protests (211). The protestors had also stormed the sanctuary. He needed her not to write another piece so the conflict would go away. Because she “felt bound to Larry,” Ellie agreed despite the complications it would cause at work (213). Finally Larry said his husband had encouraged him to meet Ellie, believing it would give him “some closure” regarding Jim’s death (214). He then revealed the truth about their relationship.

Larry and Jim had been close throughout high school. Jim was the first person to listen to and understand Larry. Though Larry was in love with Jim, he never vocalized his feelings. Larry’s love for Jim also meant Jim had power over him. Therefore, when Jim insisted they steal supplies from the school...