Chapters 17 and 18 Summary

In chapter seventeen, Hope decides she and Ryder can't possibly make it as a couple because there is too much passion and too little in common. She hates that he doesn't seem to respect her wishes or her capabilities, evidenced by the fact that he went to Wickham without asking her and without considering that she could perhaps take care of herself. Avery stops by and announces she's chosen a wedding gown from an online supplier, a fact that Hope finds horrible because she feels Avery should have the opportunity to try the dress on. Avery says Clare is already getting so big with the pregnancy that she probably wouldn't enjoy a shopping trip and she doesn't want to go without Clare. Avery says Hope is being stubborn with regard to her relationship with Ryder. Days have passed and they haven't...