But he doesn't remember that now.
-- Caroline (narration)

Importance: On Christmas Eve, a year after M's accident, M gives Caroline two bottles of wine and a short story collection. One of the stories in the collection is of particular importance to Caroline and her history with M. However, when she recalls the memory of him reading the story to her at the start of their relationship, M cannot recall this happening. In this moment, Caroline begins to realize that her shared history with M is no longer shared. Because he does not remember their past, Caroline's memories feeling isolating. The moment speaks to the story's overarching explorations concerning memory and grief.

You leave grief's garden holding a gift, he said, but he didn't answer when I asked what happens if you prefer to stay.
-- Caroline (narration)

Importance: During one of her seemingly useless meetings with M's neuropsychologist, the doctor offers the above proverb to Caroline as...