ROB'S DEATH AND THE AFTERMATH:

No one seems to know what the problem is. Rob has not been well for a couple of years. He loses a lot of time at work and ends up on long term disability leave. His eventual cancer diagnosis is vague, certainly as reported to me by Emily. They are not prepared for a terminal diagnosis and try to spin ‘lung cancer’ into something nonthreatening and understandable. It is a horrible time for the two of them. Living more than an hour from treatment, trying to manage their pets and run a business – it is all too much for Emily. (Atkinson, 2012)

Chapter Two serves to illustrate some of the difficulties that arise in situations where a couple is totally dependent on each another. The writer sees the issues that are beginning to develop once Emily is alone, but can do little to prevent the inevitable. Extravagance, poor financial stewardship, and a hopeless longing for the past all effect the decisions Emily makes. The consequences, oftentimes, are dire.