Summary

In Chapter 1, Dad Lewis is in Denver when he is diagnosed with cancer. The diagnosis confirms what he had already suspected. Dad and his wife (Mary), drive home to their place in the western part of Holt, Colorado. They have lived in their house since 1948. Dad asks for a beer, and suggests calling Lorraine. Mary tells him that doctors are sometimes wrong, but Dad knows he will be buried by September.

In Chapter 2, Mary collapses while walking through the house to water the plants. Dad calls for an ambulance.

In Chapter 3, Mary is at Holt County Memorial Hospital for three days. Her diagnosis is exhaustion from doing too much at her age. All Mary can think about is how Dad is getting along. She calls him on the phone. His only concern is for her. Mary also calls Berta May, the neighbor. Berta May...