GWTW Readalong Ch. 53-56: The most shattering scandal Atlanta had ever seen

Summary:Melanie prepares a surprise birthday party for Ashley. Scarlett and Ashley are caught in a platonic embrace at the mill, spurring rumors of adultery. Rhett forces Scarlett to attend the birthday party, where Melanie loyally stands by her side. At home, a drunken Rhett carries Scarlett up the stairs and they get freaky with each other. Rhett leaves home for three months, taking Bonnie with him. Melanie publicly defends Scarlett in the face of the Old Guard. Upon Rhett's return, Scarlett reveals to him that she is pregnant, resulting in an argument in which Scarlett falls down the stairs and miscarries. Rhett drunkenly cries on Melanie's lap.