In which Ethan rises early to engage in the laborious task of hauling lumber amid the pristine winter landscape, his thoughts wandering to the quiet tensions within his household and the delicate presence of Mattie Silver. The narrative softly reveals the subtle dynamics of care and conflict as Zeena, troubled by her ailments, abruptly prepares to seek distant medical advice, leaving Ethan to navigate the unsettled tranquillity of their home.