Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, physical abuse, and emotional abuse.

Sylvia reads Victoria’s diary dated December 12, 2017. Carol and her boyfriend, Jeff, visited Victoria and Adam. Victoria bought a new dress in preparation: She had gained weight and found her old wardrobe limiting. Adam loved the dress, which she found to be a relief. He was in a better mood lately with the upcoming publication of his new book, which he still refused to let Victoria read. He opted to cook an Italian dinner for their guests. When Carol and Jeff arrived, bringing Victoria’s favorite apple strudel, Carol asked Victoria when she was due. Victoria was embarrassed of her weight gain, even as Carol attempted to apologize. Adam took the opportunity to insult her, telling Carol that all Victoria did was “sit around and eat” (256).

Victoria took Carol on a tour of the house while Jeff and Adam watched sports. Victoria asked Carol about Mack, though she tried to sound casual. Carol told her that Mack had asked about her at least once a week, before commenting about how cute he was, though Victoria pretended to disagree.