In the earlier timeline, the time for Matilda’s annual visit to the Baum’s home arrives. They lived in Chicago for eight years and have a better home in a better neighborhood, though they still count every penny to get by. When Matilda arrives, she is small and frail, unlike Maud has ever seen her. Christmas is cheerful, though Matilda catches the flu. When she recovers, Matilda makes Maud promise that she’ll use her inheritance to buy a house for their family and not allow Frank to use it for his whims.

Soon after, Matilda dies. She had wanted her ashes spread in her garden at home. Frank must travel for work, so Julia stays with the children while Maud clears up the house and spreads the ashes. Maud brings back a few trinkets, including an embroidery she made her mother about following the Golden Path.

In the earlier timeline, Maud comes home and finds Frank writing frantically on whatever bits of paper he can find. While she was away, he got the inspiration for a story. It became his obsession and he worked avidly to write it from beginning to end. Maud takes care of the kids and house while Frank works—nothing can distract him.