Chapter 4: Trace Mountain 1946-1951 Summary

Fred never contacts Rachel. She is upset but knows it is over. She begins seeing Tony again. She knows this will upset Dillon. Although it is a mistake, she marries Tony. It is her fault—she had pushed it. But she has her father's blessing and Flora doesn't protest. Carrie and Dillon are both against the marriage. Dillon avoids running into her. Rachel and Tony move into a house near her parents. Tony buys a car and starts staying out late most nights. Even though she doesn't love him, she wants children but none come. Her doctor found her able to bear children and suggests that Tony might be sterile. When she approaches him, Tony refuses to be tested.

Rachel, 1950

People on Trace Mountain make their livings tending apple orchards and honeybees. Tuberculosis and polio are...