Ariel removes a hood from John’s head, relieved to find him well.

The narrative switches to Griffiths, who requested a meeting with the US ambassador to Portugal. She loathes him but knows he should be informed about Ariel and John’s case and its implications. She says, “Don’t be surprised if there’s some action in the next hours or days” (255).

Ariel is overcome by emotion as she helps untie John. The two embrace, and he expresses concern for her.

Ariel and John take a taxi back to their hotel. The couple know they are likely under surveillance. Moniz and Santos are near the hotel, and John decides to greet the detectives, knowing an interview is inevitable. Moniz tells them other officers will be nearby as a precaution, which both Ariel and John know is “just another one of those lies we pretend isn’t” (259).

The narrative moves back in time 14 years. Ariel is reluctantly preparing for another evening of socializing as Bucky’s wife. The event is a sumptuous gathering at Wolfe’s home in the Hamptons. As women at the party discuss their children and jewelry, Ariel is aware she has failed to meet another social expectation: She has not yet carried a pregnancy to term.