The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 2: Conrad's Unforgettable Reaction to Belly's Critical Decision Surprises Fans!

This article contains spoilers for The Summer I Turned Pretty season 2, episode 8, "Love Triangle."

Summary

Christopher Briney, who portrays Conrad in The Summer I Turned Pretty, is of the belief that by the conclusion of season 2, all the characters have found themselves in the right place.

Belly, having made her decision, opts for Jeremiah over Conrad due to Conrad's consistent lack of honesty regarding his emotions and his unwillingness to let her become a part of his life.

Conrad is currently not the right fit for Belly and is unable to meet her relationship needs. Christopher Briney, who plays Christopher Briney in The Summer I Turned Pretty, shares his reaction to Belly's important decision in the season 2 finale. Over the course of two seasons, the show has delved into a passionate love triangle involving Belly and the Fisher brothers, Jeremiah (played by Gavin Casalegno) and Conrad (played by Briney). As Belly turns 16 during the summer, her friendships with both boys evolve into something more significant. Although she was with Conrad at the end of season 1, they broke up off-screen, leading to the revival of the love triangle in season 2. Ultimately, Belly chooses to be with Jeremiah by the conclusion of season 2.

During an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Briney shared his thoughts on Belly choosing Jeremiah in the finale of Season 2 of The Summer I Turned Pretty. Briney expressed a positive perspective on the resolution of the love triangle, believing that the characters have all reached the necessary point in their lives. Particularly, Conrad has found himself in a position where he can let go and progress forward. See his statement below:

It appears that, at this stage of their lives, the characters are pursuing what they genuinely believe is best for them. Even though Conrad's circumstances may not align with his ideal, he has taken the decision to cease the fight and move forward with his own life.

Why Does Belly Choose Jeremiah Over Conrad?

In The Summer I Turned Pretty season 2, readers of Jenny Han's trilogy may have anticipated Belly's choice between Jeremiah and Conrad. However, some may still wonder why she ultimately chose Jeremiah. Throughout season 1, Belly had declared Conrad as her first crush and true love. Yet, as the story shifts between the past and present, viewers gain insight into the flaws in Conrad's behavior. He consistently failed to be honest about his emotions and kept himself closed off from Belly regarding his mother's battle with cancer.

Consequently, Conrad appeared distant and unsupportive, leading to the end of their relationship. When fate brings them together again in season 2, there is hope for reconciliation. However, Conrad stubbornly refuses to acknowledge his feelings, particularly during a crucial moment. Han highlights that in episode 6 of The Summer I Turned Pretty season 2, titled "Love Fest," Belly bravely confesses her love for Conrad and expresses the significance of their relationship to her. Unfortunately, Conrad does not reciprocate her feelings or verbalize his desire to continue their relationship.

From here on, Belly becomes more receptive to Jeremiah's advances. She had reached her limit with Conrad's aloofness, especially since Jeremiah is so sincere about his love for Belly and his desire to be better for her than Conrad. In the end, Conrad appears wounded by the situation but prepared to move forward. It's not necessarily that he isn't the right choice for Belly, but rather that he isn't the right choice for her in the present moment and isn't prepared to give her what she needs in a relationship. Ultimately, Season 2 of The Summer I Turned Pretty leaves the characters exactly where they need to be at this time.