Elizabeth and her partner Calvin share a profound love, appreciated for its depth rather than superficial qualities like attractiveness or intellect.
Their relationship enhances their scientific work and productivity as they continuously inspire each other.
Calvin brings up Thanksgiving plans, leading to a conversation that allows them to finally discuss their family backgrounds.
Elizabeth reveals her origins from Oregon, while Calvin shares that he is from Iowa and grew up without siblings due to his parents' and unborn sibling's death in a train accident, followed by his aunt’s death in a car accident.
Calvin was raised in a Catholic boys home after the fatal accidents that claimed his family, describing his early upbringing as "Rough."
Elizabeth's family history includes a father who was a manipulative religious figure and a brother who committed suicide influenced by their father's condemnation of his homosexuality.
Elizabeth finds out about her brother's sexuality through her scientific observation and supports him contrary to the rest of her family's view.
Calvin expresses disappointment at not being able to meet Elizabeth's family and have a traditional family connection through her.
Elizabeth's father is in prison for an incident resulting from his fraudulent religious practices, and her mother has relocated to Brazil to avoid consequences.
After her brother's death, Elizabeth was often left alone by her parents, leading to self-sufficiency from a young age.
Their conversation reveals deep-seated trauma and resilience, with a focus on overcoming the past and remaining hopeful for the future.
Though the topic is heavy, they opt to postpone further discussion and turn to rest, implying difficulty in processing their emotional wounds.