The Rachel Incident

Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses abortion and miscarriage.

In 2021, the morning after the Toy Show, James texts Rachel to check in on her and the pregnancy. She debates telling him about Byrne’s coma, worried that it is not the right time. They usually only speak about the affair during in-person visits late at night when they have been drinking.

In 2010, she calls James and tells him that she is pregnant. He rushes home from work, and they try to decide what to do. Rachel briefly entertains thoughts of keeping the baby but decides that she needs an abortion. She is appalled to realize that she does not know how to obtain one besides a vague instruction to travel to England.

James helps her find the number for Marie Stopes International, a reproductive health organization, and she makes an appointment. The nurse tells her the abortion will cost £500 plus flights and hotels. She and James realize they do not have enough money to cover it in their account and try to think who they could ask for money. Rachel’s parents are pro-life, she is avoiding telling Carey, and Byrne has suddenly stopped speaking to James. They are out of options and feeling desperate.