Tova connects the clues: Erik had a girl, a child was born, and Cameron is that child. Recognizing Cameron’s familiar mannerisms, she admits to Marcellus that he knew before she did. Overwhelmed, Tova breaks down in private grief beside Marcellus’s bucket, then wonders how she will live without him as his decline nears.

Resolute, Tova decides to take Marcellus “home.” She wheels the heavy bucket along the deserted, moonlit waterfront to the jetty at an extreme low tide, trading wry asides with the gulls and pushing through the ache in her back.

At the rocks above the shallow water, Tova thanks Marcellus for saving her, even if he once had to be rescued himself. She acknowledges that he led her to her grandson, recalls Will, teases him for stealing Cameron’s license, and promises to advocate for a better life for his successor. In that moment, Tova realizes she cannot move to Charter Village.

Tova says goodbye, tips the bucket, and holds Marcellus’s arm a final time as they lock eyes. He releases his grip and drops into the dark water with a heavy splash, returning to the bay as Tova lets him go.