The Brothers Hawthorne
CHAPTER 29: GRAYSON
by Barnes, Jennifer LynnGrayson finds himself at a high school party hosted at the Trowbridge residence, reluctantly accompanying Gigi, who teases him about his discomfort with casual attire. The modern, open-plan house is filled with teenagers engaging in typical party antics, including poorly aimed Ping-Pong ball tosses. Grayson observes the scene with his usual analytical detachment, noting the absence of adults and the chaotic energy. Gigi, seemingly unfazed, assigns him the role of distraction while she plans to sneak into the private wing, though she offers no clear instructions, leaving Grayson to navigate the unfamiliar social terrain on his own.
Savannah, Grayson’s counterpart in demeanor, stands on a glass staircase with Duncan, a boy Gigi dismisses as bland but socially prominent. Grayson notes Savannah’s composed indifference to Duncan’s advances, mirroring his own reserved nature. Gigi thrusts a bottle of alcoholic lemonade into Grayson’s hands, instructing him to blend in, but his attempts at normalcy are short-lived. He takes a sip of the overly sweet drink, grimacing internally, while continuing to assess the party’s dynamics, unimpressed by the ostentatious decor and lack of sophistication.
Grayson’s presence soon attracts attention, particularly from a group of girls who recognize him as a Hawthorne. They bombard him with intrusive questions about his past relationship with Avery, offering misplaced sympathy and requests for photos. Grayson remains stoic, deflecting their advances with curt responses, but their chatter shifts to mocking Savannah, whom they deride for her aloofness and perceived arrogance. Grayson’s patience wears thin, and he sharply shuts down their criticism, revealing a protective streak toward Savannah despite their similarities in emotional reserve.
As the girls persist in their gossip, a male partygoer joins in, amplifying the negativity. Grayson’s irritation grows, and he silently wills Gigi to send her elusive signal so he can escape the awkward encounter. The chapter highlights Grayson’s discomfort in casual social settings, his sharp observational skills, and his underlying loyalty to family—even when it clashes with his preference for control and order. The party serves as a backdrop for his internal struggle between maintaining his composed facade and reacting to the chaos around him.
FAQs
1. How does Grayson’s reaction to the party environment reflect his character and background?
Answer:
Grayson’s discomfort and observational approach to the party highlight his refined upbringing and preference for controlled environments. The text notes he’s attended high-profile events like charity galas and stock exchange openings, yet this teenage party unsettles him. His critique of the furniture (“aimed to impress” without “real finesse”) mirrors his own values of subtle sophistication. His refusal to engage with the girls’ gossip and his stiff demeanor further emphasize his disciplined, reserved nature—traits consistent with the Hawthorne family’s elite status and Grayson’s role as the responsible heir.2. Analyze the significance of Savannah’s behavior at the party. What does it reveal about her character?
Answer:
Savannah’s detached demeanor—particularly her lack of reaction when Duncan puts his arm around her—suggests she prioritizes appearances over authenticity. Gigi’s comment that Savannah “does what’s expected” reinforces this, painting her as someone who conforms to social expectations, much like Grayson in his own world. The girls’ criticism of her (“frigid,” “bitch”) contrasts with Grayson’s defense of her, hinting at underlying complexity. Her icy composure may be a survival tactic in a judgmental environment, reflecting the pressure of upholding the Hawthorne name in a new setting.3. How does Gigi manipulate Grayson’s presence at the party, and what does this reveal about their dynamic?
Answer:
Gigi uses Grayson as a distraction, thrusting a drink into his hand and telling him to “look normal,” knowing his mere presence will draw attention. Her teasing about his shorts and dancing highlights her playful, irreverent attitude toward his seriousness. Grayson’s internal frustration (“He was going to kill Gigi”) shows their dynamic balances on her mischief and his grudging tolerance. This mirrors sibling-like banter, suggesting Gigi feels comfortable challenging Grayson’s authority, while he reluctantly complies, possibly out of loyalty or shared objectives (like their covert mission).4. What societal commentary does the chapter offer through the teenagers’ reactions to Grayson and Savannah?
Answer:
The chapter critiques elitism and superficiality. The girls’ immediate fascination with Grayson—despite his aloofness—reveals their obsession with status (“You’re Grayson Hawthorne!”). Their pity over Avery (“took all your money”) reduces complex relationships to gossip fodder. Conversely, their vitriol toward Savannah (“expects to win everything”) exposes double standards: Grayson’s coldness is admired, while Savannah’s is vilified. The party becomes a microcosm of privilege, where social hierarchies are enforced through judgment, and conformity (like Duncan’s “bagel” personality) is rewarded.5. How does the author use humor to contrast Grayson’s personality with the party’s chaos?
Answer:
Humor arises from Grayson’s deadpan reactions to absurd situations, like the “too sweet” alcoholic lemonade or the girls’ relentless selfies. His internal monologue (“Now would be a good time for that signal”) drips with sarcasm, contrasting the party’s frivolity. Physical comedy—Ping-Pong balls ricocheting near him, Gigi’s impish grin—underscores his fish-out-of-water discomfort. The chapter leans into irony: a billionaire heir unnerved by teens, and a strategic mastermind (“professional sporting events”) foiled by hard lemonade. This highlights the absurdity of wealth and social performance.
Quotes
1. “Grayson narrowed his eyes at Gigi. ‘I don’t want to talk about it.’”
This opening exchange establishes Grayson’s guarded personality and sets the tone for his reluctant participation in the party. The terse refusal hints at deeper layers to his character that aren’t openly discussed.
2. “‘My job is stealth,’ Gigi told him seriously. ‘Yours is distraction. I believe in you, Grayson.’”
This quote captures the dynamic between Grayson and Gigi, revealing their covert mission at the party while showcasing Gigi’s playful yet strategic approach versus Grayson’s more serious demeanor.
3. “‘He’s not bad. Just… boring. Expected.’ […] ‘And Savannah does what’s expected.’”
These parallel observations about Duncan and Savannah reveal a key theme of the chapter - the tension between societal expectations and individual authenticity, particularly among the privileged youth.
4. “Grayson gave up on attempting to seem normal and gave her a very Hawthorne look. ‘And I’m too old for you.’”
This moment highlights Grayson’s discomfort in social situations and his instinctive fallback to aristocratic detachment, showing how his family identity both protects and isolates him.
5. “‘That’s enough.’ Grayson didn’t raise his voice. He didn’t have to.”
This powerful moment shows Grayson’s protective instincts emerging, particularly regarding Savannah, demonstrating that beneath his cold exterior lies a strong sense of loyalty and justice.