Ruth’s grandmother visits her, worried and eager to keep Ruth close. She urges Ruth to stay in the city after graduation and even suggests marrying her grandson, Theo, to become family. Ruth hesitates because Theo is eight years older, but the grandmother reminds her Theo saved Ruth’s life when she was injured and brought her to safety. Ruth recalls little of the incident but realizes Theo’s role in saving her. Faced with pressure and the promise of security, Ruth agrees to marry Theo—though only after she graduates—leaving their future uncertain.