In 1950 Parambil, a destructive monsoon hits, resulting in the collapse of the local electrical pole and the creation of a large lake that isolates the area.
The intense rain causes distress and isolation for the people, including Big Ammachi and her family.
Elsie, who has returned for a visit, is particularly distressed and spends most of her time pacing the verandah, much to Big Ammachi's concern.
Philipose notes that Elsie seems desperate to leave, and seems very concerned about the inability to mail a letter due to the drowned post office.
One night, Philipose finds Elsie sick and suffering outside, and brings her inside to care for her. They have a heart-to-heart where she admits her guilt for leaving the family after their mutual loss.
Philipose attempts to suggest a fresh start, offering to build a new house or even move, but Elsie does not express agreement or disagreement to his suggestion.
Following a bike accident in the subsequent days, Philipose becomes more desperate to reconcile with Elsie; he attempts to remind her of their past love and intimacy.
Philipose and Elsie share a moment of physical intimacy, which Philipose perceives as a moment of forgiveness and reconciliation despite Elsie's evident sorrow and resistance.
Following this encounter, Elsie leaves Philipose's room in silence, making him realize that she remains a stranger to him despite their shared intimacy.