Saint and Charlotte spend a long weekend clearing land beside the tall house, cutting back brush and roots under the summer sun. They work around Charlotte’s bees, eat simple meals together, and prepare a thirty-by-thirty section where Sammy’s contractor is due to lay the foundation for Charlotte’s studio. Although Charlotte first resisted the expense, she has begun to accept the plan and the possibility of a space of her own.

The labor is mixed with ordinary conversation and grief. An arborist fells several oaks in exchange for the timber, and Saint and Charlotte continue the work themselves. The memory of Norma hangs over the property, and when Charlotte says she misses her, Saint reflects that loss never becomes easier so much as people move closer to seeing the dead again.

Their talk turns to faith, prayer, and family. Saint explains that prayer may be less about asking for miracles than about remembering what matters and finding guidance within oneself. She also jokes about Norma liking Sammy, which leads to teasing banter from Charlotte and briefly lightens the mood.

The tone changes when Charlotte falls and cuts her elbow on something sharp in the soil. As Saint investigates, she quickly uncovers more remains and realizes the clearing contains many bones. The discovery becomes even more ominous because the land lies behind the old Tooms house, linking the site to past horrors. Before they can process it, Officer Michaels arrives and announces that there has been a murder.