Summary

Toby drives up to Ivy House with Melissa. Ivy House has an enchanting atmosphere thanks to its architecture and the trees which surround it, lending it the appearance of seclusion from the outside world. Toby’s narration reveals that Ivy House is home to his idyllic memories of his childhood. As they enter the driveway, Toby and Melissa are greeted by Susanna, Toby’s cousin.

As it turns out, they have unintentionally arrived just in time for the regular Sunday lunch. The festive atmosphere is unsettling for Toby because it feels artificial in the context of Hugo’s illness. The noise level is also overwhelming for Toby, who steps outside to take a break from the company inside. Outside, he reflects upon the beauty of the backyard garden and the time he spent in it during his childhood, and he encounters Sallie and Zach...