Six months after Harry’s death, Evelyn recognizes that fourteen-year-old Connor’s grief is driving risky behavior. After trying attention, conversation, and therapy suggestions that Connor resisted, Evelyn concludes the environment is the problem and resolves to move her daughter away from the spotlight and predatory influences so Connor can heal.

Evelyn leans on nightly phone calls with Celia, who grounds her and proposes Aldiz, a small, quiet city on Spain’s southern coast. Robert contacts friends near Málaga to inquire about English-language schools, reinforcing that the setting will be low-profile. Anticipating that Luisa will not uproot again, Evelyn prepares to take over the household herself and even welcomes the prospect of insignificance.

Once plans are set—schools, homes, and a new routine—Evelyn sits Connor down. She explains she is retiring from acting and that they are moving to Spain. She also tells Connor, plainly and respectfully, that she loves Celia and intends to marry Robert for protective, practical reasons, inviting questions and discussion.

Connor responds with numb indifference, insisting she does not care whom Evelyn loves or where they live, and asking to be left alone. Evelyn gives her space, aching over Connor’s grief and seeing more of herself than of Harry in her daughter’s features, a reminder of their loss.

Two days before departure, Evelyn revisits the conversation and offers Connor autonomy in Aldiz, but sets two nonnegotiable conditions: dinner together every night and regular sessions with a psychologist. Stronger and more resolute, Evelyn holds the line; Connor accepts with minimal protest. When Evelyn hugs her, Connor hesitates and then hugs back, signaling the first small step toward reconnection and recovery.