Abby Gerhard
Carol’s close friend and former lover, whose loyalty makes her a practical ally during the crisis.
To protect Carol, preserve a valuable friendship, and help manage the practical damage caused by Harge’s surveillance and custody campaign.
The book
At a glance
- Carol’s former lover and close friend
- A focus of Harge’s suspicion
- Practical ally to Carol and Therese
Who they are in the book
Spoiler-freeAbby and Carol share a history that Harge resents and uses in the custody conflict. Abby understands more of Carol’s situation than Therese does and is not easily intimidated by its social dangers.
Therese sometimes views Abby through jealousy, but Abby’s actions show steadiness rather than rivalry. She helps when Carol must return east and remains part of Carol’s life.
How the book draws them
- Confident adult womanHer assurance differs from Therese’s youth.
- Practical tailored clothesShe is polished without Carol’s formality.
- Direct gazeShe is difficult to unsettle.
- Self-contained postureHer loyalty does not require display.
- Close engraved bustNo car or household setting appears.
- Muted plum accentThe color suits her independent presence.
Abby remains loyal to Carol through the custody crisis. She does not replace Therese or disappear when Carol and Therese move toward reunion.
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