Chapter 40
Contains spoilersOverview
Tegan tries to recruit Polly by implying Hank is abusive, pointing out a bruise and the bandage from the stabbing. Polly denies abuse and refocuses on Tegan’s physical decline, proposing a wheelchair. The tension exposes cracks in Polly’s situation and gives Tegan a new avenue to plan escape.
Summary
Morning after a failed attempt to get out of bed, Tegan faces Polly, who looks strained and wears a bandage from the stabbing. While Polly helps with the bedpan, Tegan feels guilty yet fears Hank’s volatility and wonders if Polly also suffers under him.
Seeking an ally, Tegan gently probes Polly about her marriage, steering the talk toward abuse. When Tegan points out a fading bruise on Polly’s wrist, Polly snaps, insists Hank would never hurt her, and calls the bruise an accident, shutting down the appeal.
Polly pivots to caregiving, warning Tegan about bedsores and muscle atrophy, and proposes moving her into a wheelchair after lunch. Despite nausea at the thought of moving her injured ankle, Tegan agrees, seeing a potential opportunity.
After Polly goes upstairs, Tegan feels her baby kick and renews her resolve. She plans to use the promised wheelchair to find a way out and protect her child.
Who Appears
- Tegan
Pregnant captive; tests Polly about Hank’s abuse, notices bruises, agrees to wheelchair, and plots escape.
- Polly
Hank’s nurse wife; bandaged and weary, denies abuse, shifts to care tasks, suggests wheelchair for Tegan.