In the days after Theo’s death, James Ponder looks worn down by grief, public attention, worry for others, work, and age.

Reporters learn that Ponder was a consultant, landlord, confidant, and friend to the famous artist Zila, and they swarm Ponder House seeking interviews—especially wanting to know why Zila chose to live in Golden. Mrs. Gidley repeatedly turns them away at the front door.

One morning, Mrs. Gidley surprises Ponder by insisting he meet a young woman from out of town who is not press. Ponder refuses at first, claiming exhaustion and pressing obligations, but relents because Mrs. Gidley has a strong feeling he should.

The visitor, Olivia Reese of South Carolina, nervously explains she wants help locating a missing person she believes lives in the area. Ponder curtly tells Olivia Reese to hire a private investigator and tries to send her away, then snaps when she persists.

Olivia Reese, shaken but determined, begs Ponder to read a letter addressed to her. As Ponder reads it twice, his anger drains away and turns to tenderness; he looks up at Olivia Reese and recognizes her as Willa.