Nell and Joe express that their father would have taken their mother to the hospital, a statement that appears to relate to a recent event.
The family discusses a past event about possibly crossing paths on the road while heading in opposite directions.
There's a memory of telling someone they passed the "Stage Manager" on his way to work.
Joe reveals that he lied about being the brother to visit someone in the hospital after a play, reflecting on how he could lie well when necessary.
Questions about being scared during hospitalization and surgery lead to reflections on independence and not wanting to worry family members.
A call from Ripley asking about an accident prompts a discussion about a ruptured Achilles injury and details about recovery.
Ripley insists that the injured person needs to return to L.A. for a film's publicity, revealing that the editor made them a star in the movie "Singularity".
There's resistance to leaving a commitment to a summer stock theater, despite the opportunity in L.A.
The chapter also explores the notions of family and solitude, along with memories tied to a past theatrical role.
Jeanne, a nurse, assists with personal care before the protagonist is discharged from the hospital.
A discussion ensues about how an individual did not receive a visit from a certain "Duke" before one of his performances, although he had a chance to do so.
The protagonist confesses to stopping acting after a hospital stay at the age of twenty-five, leaving a significant emotional impact.
There is a recollection of seeing another actor, Pallace, perform spectacularly in the role of Emily in the play "Our Town".
A reflection on the transient nature of roles in life and how others can step into and excel in those roles is highlighted.
Pallace's fresh portrayal of Emily in "Our Town" causes the audience insight into accepting new interpretations of the character, breaking their preconceptions.
The protagonist realizes they will never play Emily again and comes to terms with moving on from that period in life, which was filled with both love and personal growth.