If you’re a The Summer I Turned Pretty (TSITP) fan, chances are you’ve spent hours rewatching scenes, analyzing character arcs, and debating love triangles. While most conversations revolve around Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah, there’s another character fans can’t help but wonder about: Steven Conklin. Who does Steven end up with in TSITP—and what does that say about his role in the story?
This post is written for readers like you—passionate TSITP fans who love diving deeper into the series’ characters, relationships, and hidden meanings. Let’s unpack Steven’s journey and finally answer the burning question.
Steven’s Role in TSITP
Steven Conklin, Belly’s older brother, isn’t caught in the central love triangle, but his character provides balance and comic relief throughout the story. He’s protective of Belly, loyal to his friends, and often the voice of reason amid the chaos of Cousins Beach.
For fans who identify with the “underrated sibling” or who appreciate the side plots that give the series depth, Steven’s arc is a fun—and surprisingly meaningful—storyline to follow.
Who Does Steven End Up With?
In Jenny Han’s Books
In the original trilogy by Jenny Han, Steven’s love life isn’t a major plot point. He doesn’t end up with a specific partner by the end of the books. Instead, his story centers more on family dynamics, personal growth, and preparing for college.
For readers, this was both refreshing and frustrating. On one hand, not every teen needs a dramatic love story; on the other, fans wanted to see Steven find his own “summer romance.”
In the Prime Video Adaptation
The show takes some creative liberties—and this includes Steven’s relationships. In Season 1, Steven is romantically involved with Shayla, a stylish and confident girl who quickly became a fan favorite. Their chemistry brought lightheartedness to the series and gave Steven’s character more depth.
However, by Season 2, Steven and Shayla’s storyline had ended off-screen. This left fans asking: Why? And more importantly, will Steven end up with anyone else as the show continues?
So, the short answer is:
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In the books: Steven doesn’t end up with anyone.
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In the show (so far): Steven has had Shayla as his main love interest, but their relationship ends. His romantic future is still open.
Why Steven’s Story Matters
Steven’s love life may not drive the plot like Belly’s, but it resonates with a lot of fans. Here’s why:
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Relatable Sibling Energy – Anyone who’s grown up with a sibling knows that mix of teasing, protecting, and secretly caring deeply. Steven embodies that perfectly.
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Comic Relief in a Tense Love Triangle – When things get messy between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah, Steven provides balance with his humor.
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Representation of Real Life – Not everyone finds their “forever love” as a teenager. Sometimes, the side character’s story reflects real experiences of young adulthood.
Fan Theories: Who Could Steven End Up With?
Since the adaptation leaves Steven’s future open, fans have plenty of theories:
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A New Character in Future Seasons – It’s possible the showrunners will introduce someone new who complements Steven’s growth.
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Shayla’s Return – Many fans are still holding out hope that Shayla will come back. Their chemistry was undeniable.
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Staying Single – Steven might just stay focused on his own goals, friendships, and family—a storyline that’s just as valid.
What do you think? Would you rather see Steven with Shayla again, or do you hope for a brand-new love story?
Conclusion: Steven’s Future Is Wide Open
So, who does Steven end up with in The Summer I Turned Pretty? The answer depends on whether you’re looking at the books or the show:
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In the books, he doesn’t have a major romantic ending.
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In the show, he has Shayla in Season 1, but his future love life remains uncertain.
And maybe that’s exactly the point—Steven’s journey reminds us that love stories aren’t always the center of growing up. Sometimes, it’s about finding yourself, cherishing your family, and letting romance happen naturally when the time is right.