Lila finds living with post–heart-attack Bill more difficult than expected. Bill is anxious about his health, the house, and his medications, resisting help yet micromanaging chores and noise. Penelope fusses over him while apologizing to Lila, and the girls quickly revert to normal, largely indifferent. Lila senses the house lacks the upbeat energy once provided by Eleanor, Jensen, and Gene.

Dan remains focused on Marja in the hospital, sounding increasingly strained in brief calls. Lila is exhausted by caring across generations and tries to maintain routine, noting Jensen has not replied to her letter and choosing not to pursue further contact due to his new relationship.

Attempting normalcy, Lila promises to collect Violet from school and runs errands for Bill’s preferences. At the playground, Philippa Graham confronts Lila angrily about failing to provide costumes for the school production, accusing Lila of neglect.

Dan arrives with Hugo and firmly rebukes Philippa, explaining that Lila has been dealing with Bill’s massive heart attack and that alternative arrangements for the play are in place. Philippa backs down, chastened, while Dan dismisses the importance of the costumes for a primary-school production.

Stepping aside with Lila, Dan asks after Bill. He then admits Marja’s pregnancy is in critical condition, with doctors keeping the baby inside day by day to improve its chances. Lila, surprised by a surge of sympathy, expresses sorrow for Dan and concern for Marja and the baby.

Hugo asks to go home, and Dan, weary but courteous, prepares to leave. Lila thanks Dan for defending her; he acknowledges her quietly and departs with Hugo, asking her to pass his love to Bill. The encounter ends with a subdued, civil connection between Lila and Dan amid ongoing family strain.