The Brothers Hawthorne
CHAPTER 90: GRAYSON
by Barnes, Jennifer LynnGrayson returns to Hawthorne House, confronting the remnants of the tree house he and Jameson destroyed in their grief after Emily’s death. As he navigates the damaged structure, his brothers Xander and Nash surprise him, having anticipated his arrival. Grayson avoids discussing the emotional turmoil that prompted his return, but his siblings create a lighthearted atmosphere, preparing for an impromptu slumber party. The scene sets the tone for a chapter balancing familial bonds with unspoken tensions.
The brothers engage in a chaotic game of “Drink or Dare,” mixing absurd concoctions and issuing outrageous challenges. Jameson arrives with supplies for the game, and the siblings revel in the ridiculousness—Nash nearly eats his hat, Xander builds a self-slapping machine, and Grayson’s stoicism begins to crack. The game serves as a distraction from deeper issues, though Jameson’s bruised face hints at unresolved adventures in England. The playful dynamic contrasts with the underlying emotional weight Grayson carries.
As the night progresses, the brothers’ antics momentarily ease Grayson’s tension, but Jameson seizes the opportunity to push him emotionally. He dares Grayson to admit he’s not okay, forcing him to confront his feelings. Grayson initially resists, reaching for the dreaded drink instead, but Nash and Xander create a safe space for vulnerability. The moment marks a shift from humor to raw honesty, as Grayson’s defenses begin to crumble.
Grayson finally confesses his fear of losing people, acknowledging his strained relationships with his sisters and his struggle with imperfection. Nash reassures him of their unwavering support, emphasizing that Grayson hasn’t lost his brothers. The chapter closes with a poignant blend of humor and heartache, highlighting the Hawthorne siblings’ ability to balance chaos with compassion, even as Grayson grapples with his vulnerabilities.
FAQs
1. What significant event from the past is referenced through the condition of the tree house, and what does this reveal about Grayson’s emotional state?
Answer:
The damaged condition of the tree house reflects the aftermath of Grayson and Jameson’s destructive actions following Emily’s death. This reveals Grayson’s deep-seated grief and tendency to cope with loss through physical outbursts. The chapter shows Grayson deliberately returning to this symbolic location, suggesting he’s confronting unresolved trauma. His careful observation of the damage (“angry, gaping holes”) mirrors his internal emotional landscape, where past wounds remain raw despite his composed exterior.2. How does the “Drink or Dare” game serve as both comic relief and emotional catalyst in this chapter?
Answer:
The game initially provides lighthearted moments (Nash eating his hat, Xander’s Rube Goldberg machine) that temporarily distract Grayson from his pain, as noted when “the tightness in his chest” disappears. However, Jameson strategically uses the game’s framework to push emotional honesty with his dare for Grayson to admit he’s not okay. This transforms the silly game into a safe space for vulnerability, demonstrating how the Hawthorne brothers use humor as both a coping mechanism and a bridge to deeper connection.3. Analyze how Grayson’s confession (“I’m not okay”) reveals his core character conflicts.
Answer:
Grayson’s admission exposes two fundamental conflicts: his perfectionism (“Every time he was anything less than perfect…”) and his fear of abandonment. His statement about being “exceptionally good at losing people” shows he equates vulnerability with eventual loss, creating self-fulfilling prophecies in relationships. The specific mention of his sisters never speaking to him again suggests recent events (possibly the phone password incident) have reinforced this belief. This moment is pivotal as it contrasts with his usual controlled demeanor, revealing the emotional cost of maintaining his “perfect Hawthorne” facade.4. What do the brothers’ different preparations for the gathering reveal about their personalities and relationships?
Answer:
Each brother’s contributions reflect their distinct personalities: Nash brings practical supplies (grocery bags), Xander arrives with absurd but useful tools (kitchen shears), and Jameson prepares the game components to facilitate bonding. Their coordinated yet unspoken efforts show deep understanding of each other’s needs - they create an environment where Grayson can eventually open up. Notably, they respect Grayson’s initial reluctance to talk (“I don’t want to talk about it”) while still ensuring he isn’t alone, demonstrating their balanced approach to supporting him.5. How does the chapter use physical space (the damaged tree house) as a metaphor for the characters’ emotional journeys?
Answer:
The dilapidated tree house serves as a powerful metaphor for the brothers’ shared trauma and healing process. While most structures are destroyed (“only one tower remains”), they still gather in the ruins, showing their commitment to rebuilding relationships. Grayson’s careful navigation of the damaged space mirrors his cautious approach to emotions. The fact they pretend “it was still fully intact” during their game suggests their ability to create normalcy amid brokenness, foreshadowing how they’ll help Grayson rebuild his emotional world after his confession.
Quotes
1. “Grayson stared up at the havoc he and Jameson had wreaked after Emily died. Slipping off his suit jacket and laying it over a low-hanging branch, he began to climb.”
This quote visually captures Grayson’s return to the physical and emotional wreckage of his past, symbolized by the destroyed tree house. It sets the tone for the chapter’s exploration of grief and brotherhood.
2. “I’ll go first,” Xander volunteered. “Jamie, I dare you to tell us the absolute most banana pants thing that happened while you were in England.” “Met my father. Won a castle. Saved a duchess from certain death. Not in that order.”
This exchange highlights the Hawthorne brothers’ unique dynamic, using humor to address serious life events. Jameson’s nonchalant delivery of these extraordinary revelations characterizes the family’s eccentricity.
3. “Grayson,” Green eyes met Grayson’s ice-blue ones. “I dare you to admit that you’re not okay.”
This pivotal moment shifts the chapter from playful to profound, as Jameson challenges Grayson’s emotional barriers. The dare format cleverly uses their established game to facilitate vulnerability.
4. “I’m not okay,” Grayson said. “My sisters will probably never speak to me again, and I’m not good at losing people. Either that, or I am exceptionally good at losing people.”
This raw admission represents the chapter’s emotional climax, revealing Grayson’s deep-seated fears of abandonment and perfectionism. The paradoxical statement powerfully conveys his internal conflict.