Summary
Highlights
The chapter opens with the discovery of Otis's body, caught in weeds underwater. The narrator is haunted by the image of Otis and ponders who left the mysterious note and towels, given that Otis was already dead. She struggles with the possibility that someone knew her secret and was waiting to reveal it, or perhaps would let it go now that both Pauline and Otis were gone.
The narrator recounts her experience at Pauline's funeral, feeling detached as if in a dream. The church is overflowing, and the atmosphere is heavy with grief. Otis's mother and sister arrive, creating a stir, but ultimately, Otis's mother comforts Mrs. Gennaro, signifying a shared pain beyond blame. The narrator feels immense guilt for her role in the events leading to Pauline's death.
After the eulogy, the narrator's dad plays 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' on his guitar. The song, though typically cheerful, becomes heartbreaking in this context. The narrator sits with Alex, imagining Pauline in a better place but acknowledging that Pauline would rather be alive.
At the graveside, the air is filled with the scent of flowers and the sound of the Blackwater. The thought of returning to the Gennaro's house for a gathering fills the narrator with dread, as she only desires solitude. Her mom encourages her and Alex to offer condolences before going home.
The narrator approaches Mrs. Gennaro to offer condolences. Alex warns her to keep it brief and simple, fearing she might say the wrong thing due to her distressed state. The narrator also offers her sympathies to Otis's mother, prompting Alex to urge them to leave quickly.
The narrator reflects on how her view of the graveyard from her bathroom window has changed from pleasing to hateful. Alex comments on the sadness of death and then, when questioned, denies writing the note, stating it would only get him into trouble. He then reveals a darker motivation.
The narrator suddenly understands Alex's true intentions: he wants her out of the way so he can take over her life, her family, friends, and everything she has. She realizes she is now forever in his power.