Part Five

Eleven days after the city trip, Josie’s condition worsens: strange breathing, semi-waking stares, and long sleeps. Dr Ryan visits daily, and the Mother keeps vigil. Rick comes often but is allowed only brief looks from the doorway. During one brief exchange, Josie and Rick speak gently before she fades again.

Klara, sensing time is short, takes Rick into the fields and asks him to confirm that his love with Josie is genuine and lasting. When Rick affirms it, Klara arranges another sunset journey to Mr McBain’s barn, believing a renewed plea to the Sun may save Josie.

At the barn, Klara apologizes for failing to stop Pollution and begs the Sun for special nourishment for Josie. She offers the strength of Josie and Rick’s love as her plea. As the Sun’s rays sweep the barn, Klara sees shifting images and, in stacked panes of glass, multiple superimposed reflections of the Sun’s face before the light fades.

Days later, exhausted adults debate the hospital as a storm darkens the sky. In the kitchen, the Mother confronts Rick about “winning” by not being lifted; Rick, anger contained, delivers a message from Josie affirming her love for her mother and acceptance of being lifted.

Klara spots the Sun breaking through and rushes everyone upstairs. She and Rick throw open the curtains despite Melania Housekeeper’s protests. Fierce orange light engulfs Josie’s bed; Josie stirs, speaks, and sits up with new strength. As the light recedes and the storm resumes, Josie remains improved, leaving the household cautiously hopeful.