The Final Gambit (The Inheritance Games)
CHAPTER 18
by Barnes, Jennifer LynnAfter Rebecca leaves, the protagonist remains in the tunnels, contemplating their next move before returning to Hawthorne House through a hidden staircase. Upon regaining cell reception, they make a decisive phone call to Thea Calligaris, a character with whom they share a complex, evolving relationship. Thea responds with her signature sarcasm, hinting at their unlikely friendship. The protagonist hesitates before revealing their purpose for calling, setting the stage for a significant conversation about a mysterious girl named Eve.
Thea, now a successful influencer, initially deflects the seriousness of the call with her trademark wit. However, the tone shifts as the protagonist discloses that Eve bears an uncanny resemblance to someone from their past—likely Emily, Thea’s late best friend. The revelation that Eve wants to meet Rebecca’s mother adds another layer of tension. Thea’s uncharacteristic silence underscores the gravity of the situation, and she acknowledges the bizarre nature of the circumstances, even by Hawthorne standards.
Despite her hardened exterior, Thea’s concern for Rebecca becomes apparent. The protagonist probes Thea’s emotional state, but she deflects with humor, maintaining her “bitch aesthetic.” Thea deduces that Rebecca didn’t want her involved, yet she seems determined to intervene. Their banter reveals Thea’s conflicted feelings toward the Hawthornes, blending schadenfreude with underlying care. The protagonist gently steers the conversation back to Rebecca, questioning Thea’s next steps.
Thea resolves to call Rebecca, refusing to let her avoid the conversation. Her determination hints at a deeper commitment to their relationship, contrasting her earlier aloofness. The chapter closes with the protagonist entrusting Rebecca’s well-being to Thea, who assures them with uncharacteristic sincerity. The exchange highlights the growth in their dynamic, from rivals to reluctant allies, united by their concern for Rebecca and the unfolding mystery surrounding Eve.
FAQs
1. How does the relationship between Avery and Thea Calligaris contrast with their initial interactions, and what key development demonstrates this change?
Answer:
Initially, Avery and Thea had a contentious relationship, as evidenced by Thea’s sarcastic greeting (“rather dubious honor”) and mocking tone about the Hawthornes’ meltdowns. However, the chapter shows they’ve developed a complex friendship over time—Avery feels comfortable sharing sensitive information about Eve with Thea, despite Rebecca’s objections. The key development demonstrating their growth is Thea’s willingness to drop her guarded persona when Avery asks if she’s okay about Emily, showing vulnerability beneath her “bitch aesthetic” facade. Their mutual concern for Rebecca also bonds them.2. Analyze Thea Calligaris’s character based on her dialogue in this chapter. What contradictions exist in her personality, and how do they serve her relationships?
Answer:
Thea presents herself as cold and self-important (referencing her “very valuable” time and “empire to build”), yet shows deep loyalty—she immediately prioritizes Rebecca upon learning about Eve. Her claim that vulnerability “clashes with my bitch aesthetic” contradicts her genuine concern for Rebecca (“Of course I am” calling her). These contradictions allow her to maintain a protective, detached public image while privately nurturing meaningful connections. Her humor about schadenfreude masks real emotional intelligence about the Hawthornes’ struggles.3. What significant ethical dilemma does Avery face in this chapter, and what does her decision reveal about her character development?
Answer:
Avery faces a conflict between honesty with Thea and respecting Rebecca’s wishes to keep Eve’s existence private. By choosing to “tell her everything,” Avery demonstrates growth in making difficult judgment calls—she recognizes Thea’s right to know given her history with Emily and relationship with Rebecca. This shows Avery’s increasing confidence in navigating the Hawthorne family’s complex dynamics, prioritizing emotional truth over strict confidentiality. Her follow-up (“Take care of her”) reveals her protective instincts toward Rebecca despite the potential fallout.4. How does the author use Thea’s dialogue to foreshadow future conflicts regarding Eve’s introduction into the Hawthorne circle?
Answer:
Thea’s reactions—calling the situation “messed up” and immediately questioning Rebecca’s involvement—signal brewing tension. Her sarcastic query about Hawthorne meltdowns hints that Eve’s resemblance to Emily will destabilize the family. The phrase “petty satisfaction… arrogant bastards have itty-bitty feelings” suggests the Hawthornes’ emotional reactions may become a point of contention. Most tellingly, Thea’s vow to “chase” Rebecca implies she’ll actively intervene, potentially creating a loyalty conflict between supporting Rebecca and respecting the family’s process.
Quotes
1. “No matter how long it takes. I’m going to keep choosing her.”
This quote from Thea Calligaris reveals her deep loyalty and persistence in her relationship with Rebecca, showing a vulnerable side beneath her typically cold exterior. It’s significant as it foreshadows her later commitment to supporting Rebecca through difficult revelations.
2. “This is messed up, even by Hawthorne and Hawthorne-adjacent standards.”
Thea’s reaction to learning about Eve’s existence captures the extraordinary nature of the situation while maintaining her characteristic wit. This quote highlights how the chapter’s events push even these unconventional characters beyond their normal boundaries.
3. “I don’t do vulnerable. It clashes with my bitch aesthetic.”
This self-aware statement perfectly encapsulates Thea’s carefully cultivated persona and defense mechanisms. The quote is significant as it shows her resistance to emotional openness while ironically revealing vulnerability through the very act of stating this position.
4. “Though really, the Germans should come up with a word that more precisely captures the emotion of getting petty satisfaction out of knowing that the world’s most arrogant bastards have itty-bitty feelings, too.”
This humorous yet insightful quote demonstrates Thea’s complex relationship with the Hawthornes and her sophisticated way of processing emotions through wit. It represents the chapter’s theme of characters grappling with difficult emotions while maintaining their distinctive voices.
5. “Now, if that’s everything, I have an empire to build and a girl to chase.”
Thea’s closing statement combines her ambitious, independent nature with her romantic commitment to Rebecca. This quote is significant as it shows her determination to balance personal and professional pursuits while moving forward with purpose.