Contents
Chapter 63
Overview
After Floyd departs, Laurel reels from the truth about Ellie and Noelle, then comforts Poppy as the girl seeks clarity about her origins. Laurel confirms Ellie was Poppy’s mother, acknowledges uncertainties about Poppy’s biological father, and agrees to take Poppy to meet her family. Their bond solidifies as Poppy breaks down.
Summary
The film ends and Laurel realizes Floyd has left. Overwhelmed by grief and anger at the revelation of Ellie’s captivity and death, Laurel lashes out in Floyd’s office, tormented by how close she once was to Noelle’s house without knowing Ellie was there.
Poppy enters, struggling with her hair and the revelations from the previous night. Laurel, slipping into maternal instinct, does Poppy’s ponytail. As they talk, Poppy reveals Floyd told her Noelle wasn’t her mother and asks if Laurel is her grandmother. Laurel confirms that Ellie was Poppy’s mother and describes Ellie as wonderful and golden.
Poppy asks if Ellie is dead and whether her biological father is alive. Laurel admits Ellie is dead and that Poppy’s biological father is unknown and may never be identified. Poppy checks her reflection, asks about Ellie’s beauty, and then wants to attend the family party to see her “real family.”
When Poppy asks if Floyd will return, Laurel says she does not know. The uncertainty breaks Poppy’s stoicism; she sobs, and Laurel holds her, feeling a powerful surge of love and a renewed maternal bond.
Who Appears
- Laurel MackReels from revelations, confirms to Poppy that Ellie was her mother, comforts her, and agrees to take her to meet the family.
- PoppyLearns Ellie was her mother, questions her origins and father, seeks comfort, and chooses to meet Laurel’s family.
- Floyd DunnLeaves the house after his confession; previously told Poppy about her parentage, his return uncertain.
- Ellie MackDeceased daughter of Laurel; revealed as Poppy’s biological mother and the focus of Poppy’s questions.
- Noelle DonnellyTutor who abducted Ellie; referenced as not Poppy’s mother and the source of Laurel’s anguish.