Contents
Chapter 80
Overview
Three months after Mabel’s death, Persephone struggles with grief despite moving to a nicer home funded by Peter’s shared inheritance. Daisy reassures Persephone that healing does not betray Mabel’s memory, revealing she also knew Mabel, who once called her Daphne. The scene marks tentative emotional recovery.
Summary
Persephone and Daisy sit on the floor of Persephone’s new bedroom, surrounded by coloring books they are not using. Persephone explains that Peter from Kenny Lane shared money with her mother after Elsa (Mabel) died, allowing them to move into a fancy rental with plans to buy a house. Despite the improved circumstances, Persephone remains deeply sad.
It has been three months since Elsa’s death. Nugget, the dog, stays in Persephone’s lap, and Persephone wonders if Nugget still smells Elsa on her. Daisy notes that this is the first time Persephone has said “Elsa died” without crying, suggesting a small step toward healing.
Persephone resists the idea of feeling better, fearing that happiness would mean she no longer loves Elsa or that Elsa might see her and think she has moved on. Daisy firmly reassures her that love remains regardless of grief’s intensity.
When Persephone asks how Daisy can know this, Daisy reminds her that she also knew Elsa. Daisy reveals that in those days Elsa called her “Daphne,” signaling Daisy’s past connection to Elsa and strengthening her reassurance. The moment closes with Persephone acknowledging that Elsa belonged to others too, not just to her.
Who Appears
- PersephoneChild narrator grieving Elsa/Mabel three months after her death; struggles with guilt about healing.
- DaisyPersephone’s friend; offers comfort and reveals she knew Elsa, who once called her Daphne.
- Elsa (Mabel)Recently deceased elder; beloved by Persephone and previously knew Daisy as “Daphne.”
- Peter (from Kenny Lane)Recipient of Elsa’s bequest who shared funds with Persephone’s mother, enabling a better home.
- MumPersephone’s mother; moves them to a nicer rental with Peter’s shared inheritance.
- NuggetPersephone’s dog; constant companion during her grief.