Things We Lost in the Fire

Audrey Burke and her husband Brian have spent eleven years building a loving family. Together, they are raising their daughter Harper and son Dory, creating a nurturing environment filled with love and care.

The peace of Audrey and Brian’s family life is disrupted by the return of Jerry Sunborne, a long-time friend of Brian's and a heroin addict. Despite Audrey's concerns about Jerry's influence, Brian is determined to help him, leading to tension between the couple.

A pivotal moment occurs when Brian loses his life while bravely defending a woman from domestic abuse. His death leaves Audrey devastated and grappling with overwhelming grief as she now faces the trials of single motherhood.

On the day of Brian's funeral, Audrey realizes that she never informed Jerry about Brian's passing. Her brother Neal decides to reach out to Jerry, illustrating the complex relationships entwined in their lives.

During the funeral service, Audrey reflects on her previous disdain for Jerry and acknowledges Brian's unwavering belief in him. This moment serves as a reminder of the choices made and the complexities of love and friendship.

As time goes on, Audrey struggles to cope with her new life without Brian. The burden of grief becomes overwhelming, and she begins to realize the depth of her emotional turmoil, further complicating her interactions with Jerry.

Audrey discovers a sum of money in her car that she initially accused Jerry of stealing. This revelation shifts her perspective, and she begins to see Jerry in a more positive light, leading her to invite him to stay nearby.

Audrey allows Jerry to stay in a room near their garage, marking the beginning of a complicated relationship. As Jerry tries to rebuild his life after working at a methadone clinic, both he and Audrey navigate their shared grief and support each other.

Jerry forms a special bond with Harper, sharing their vegetarian lifestyle and creating a sense of connection. These moments showcase the potential for positive relationships amidst the backdrop of grief and recovery.

Tension arises when Audrey confronts Jerry about his negative influence on Harper, who has been skipping school. This conflict escalates and highlights the fragility of their relationship as they navigate the complexities of addiction and recovery.

In a moment of vulnerability, Jerry succumbs to his addiction and relapses, returning to heroin. This setback is deeply troubling for Audrey, who feels the weight of her responsibility to help him regain stability.

Determined to help Jerry, Audrey enlists the support of her brother Neal and introduces him to Kelly, a woman from Jerry's recovery group who has feelings for him. This effort reflects the strength of community and the quest for redemption.

During these challenging times, Audrey shares cherished memories of Brian with her children. These reflections illustrate the enduring love that holds them together and serves as a guiding light through their hardships.

In a poignant moment, Jerry writes a heartfelt note to Harper, providing comfort during his departure. He reminds them to 'Accept the good,' a lesson learned from both Brian and Audrey that resonates within the family.

As the story concludes, Jerry's journey toward recovery remains fraught with challenges, yet his impact on Audrey and her children is undeniable. The narrative closes on a note of hope and resilience, echoing the abiding threads of love and connection.