In her solitude, Laurel turned to alcohol, drinking day and night in an attempt to numb the overwhelming feelings.
She didn't want to appear miserable in front of anyone, but now when no one was around her, she felt free to succumb to her despair.
Without Hazel and other people surrounding her, here, away from everyone, she could drink until she blacked out.
The cycle was painfully simple: drink, pass out, and when she woke up, do it all over again. It was a temporary relief, a way to escape the agony even if it was only for a little while.
On the other hand, Carl finally stirred awake after a week of unconsciousness. The first sight he registered was his mother, who sat on the chair next to his bed. Her expression was a mixture of relief and worry.
