Contents
Chapter 23
Overview
During a recorded interview, Elsie confronts public myths about her past. She clarifies that Kitty died of polio, her mother’s death was a suicide, and her own final attack was even more violent than reported. Elsie insists Daphne was her steadfast rescuer, not a betrayer, reframing the narrative. Light banter about Adeem’s new marriage underscores Elsie’s view that love and fear are entwined.
Summary
Libby opens the interview by noting the many versions of Elsie’s story and invites her to set the record straight. Elsie begins with Kitty, stating the official cause of death was polio at twelve months, despite rumors she smothered, tortured, or threw the baby. On her mother’s death, Elsie says it was ruled a suicide and argues a silent fall is inconsistent with a push, countering the belief she murdered her.
Addressing the final murder, Libby cites court records calling Elsie’s attack “vicious and unyielding.” Elsie remembers the scene and concedes the description understated the brutality, implying intent was evident. Libby shifts to Daphne, and Elsie grows emotional, saying public opinion has Daphne wrong: Daphne stood by her, gave everything, asked for nothing, and ultimately saved her.
Later, Adeem steps out to take a call. Libby shares that he’s newly married to Meera, joking about his henpecked devotion. Libby mentions having a boyfriend but no interest in constant contact. When Adeem returns, Elsie needles him about his youth; he defends his devotion, admitting love can be terrifying.
The exchange closes with Elsie agreeing: in her experience, love and terror are synonymous. The interview establishes Elsie’s intention to reclaim her narrative, especially rehabilitating Daphne’s image, while foreshadowing a deeper exploration of the final killing.
Who Appears
- Elsie (Mabel)Eighty-one, interviewed about her past; corrects rumors, admits attack’s brutality, and defends Daphne as her savior.
- LibbyInterviewer guiding the conversation; presses on deaths and Daphne; banters about relationships.
- AdeemCo-host and note-taker; briefly steps out to call his wife; returns to discuss devotion and fear.
- DaphneOffstage; portrayed by Elsie as loyal and selfless, the one who stood by and saved her.
- KittyElsie’s infant sister; confirmed to have died of polio at twelve months, contrary to rumors.
- Elsie’s motherHer death officially ruled a suicide; Elsie disputes the public belief that she pushed her.
- MeeraAdeem’s new wife; high maintenance but adored, illustrating themes of devotion and fear in love.