Summary

Chapter 1 opens in the home of Katy Silver’s father, Chuck, in Culver City. Katy is holding an unlit cigarette—her mother made her promise to never smoke. It is the last day of shiva for Katy’s mother, Carol. Carol was beloved in her community. Katy’s husband Eric arrives at the end of the day. Katy told him the night before that she wants a divorce. Watching her mother die of a prolonged illness made Katy realize how precious time is.

Katy and Eric met in university. After graduation, she moved to New York City with him. He worked as a journalist while she worked as a copywriter.

Eric asks Katy to talk. She promises they will later. For now, she will stay with her father. Eric hands her the mail: two tickets to Positano, Italy. Katy booked the trip with...