Agatha's previous trip to Arkansas came with the realization that she was very good at being alone.
-- Narrator (chapter 1)

Importance: When Agatha moves from Chicago to Fayetteville on her own, she believes the transition will be easy for her given her familiarity with solitude. However, because Agatha has just broken up with Robin, she immediately feels isolated and lonely in her new Arkansas setting. The place compounds her heartbreak and augments her alienation. Therefore, living in Fayetteville complicates Agatha's sense of self.

She later understood this as overcompensation, a correction of her status as an only child.
-- Narrator (chapter 2)

Importance: From a young age, Millie learns to be accommodating of others. She attributes the habit to being an only child. In spite of her self-awareness, she continues to put others' needs before her own. These overly flexible behavioral patterns convey Millie's desperation for belonging and acceptance.

It had been gifted to her only eight months ago...
-- Narrator (chapter 4)