Part 3, Chapter 11 Summary

Manna's health and heart condition are worsening. Her doctor tells Lin he cannot understand why her disease has progressed so rapidly, but there is little left to do for her. He advises Lin to keep her as happy and quiet as possible. Lin tries to keep the severity of her illness secret, but the truth circulates and Manna soon hears about it. Lin is dismayed by her reaction, one of calm acceptance, as though she does not care or value her life anyway. As time passes, she becomes increasingly temperamental and childish.

Lin takes over most of the housework, including the laundry, something Manna had always done for him, or Shuyu. He is losing weight, worn out, and grateful when Hua visits to help and bring the babies gifts. Hua loves her two little half-brothers, and drawn together by the babies...