Belly and Conrad are the central couple in Jenny Han’s “It’s Not Summer Without You” and “We’ll Always Have Summer,” later adapted by Netflix in the series “XO, Kitty.” This overview explains their evolving relationship, the narrative outcomes across book and screen, and how their dynamic resolves in the source material.
Who are Belly and Conrad
Belly Conklin and Conrad Fisher are childhood friends who spend every summer together with their families in Cousins, Massachusetts. Their bond deepens into romance across the books, complicated by family grief, rivalry, and personal growth. The Netflix spin-off “XO, Kitty” revisits Belly’s return to Cousins and her history with Conrad in a modernized continuation.
Book series trajectory
In Jenny Han’s original trilogy, Belly’s romantic feelings shift over time, creating pivotal moments that redefine her connections. Key developments include:
| Book | Belly and Conrad status | Narrative importance |
|---|---|---|
| It’s Not Summer Without You | Deepening bond and first kiss | Establishes their foundational relationship |
| We’ll Always Have Summer | Conflict, breakup, and reconciliation | Tests commitment and long-term compatibility |
| Never Have I Ever | Closure, growth, and moving forward | Resolves the trilogy emotionally |
Key themes affecting their outcome
- Family trauma and grief, particularly surrounding Susannah
- Friendship evolving into romance and back again
- Independence versus maintaining long-distance ties
- Growing up and changing priorities
XO, Kitty series continuation
In “XO, Kitty,” Belly returns to Korea and reconnects with familiar faces. The showrunners modernized timelines and introduced new dynamics while preserving the core history between Belly and Conrad. Viewers see how distance, new relationships, and personal change influence whether they can rebuild trust and intimacy.
Verified status across mediums
Across books and the TV adaptation, Belly and Conrad ultimately choose different growth paths, valuing self-discovery over staying together. They maintain affection and respect, transitioning from romantic partners to friends who share a lasting bond. Neither storyline presents a definitive “happily ever after” couple outcome, instead opting for maturity and closure.
Quick comparison of outcomes
| Medium | Outcome | Relationship label |
|---|---|---|
| Books (trilogy) | Mutual growth and separation | Closure; friends with history |
| XO, Kitty | Emotional resolution, not romance | Healed connection; mature friendship |
Takeaway
What happened to Belly and Conrad is a story of evolving love and realistic change. They move from intense childhood bond through romantic trials to a mature, friendly understanding. The emphasis remains on personal healing and trusting individual journeys rather than forcing a traditional couple ending.