In the winter of 1975, Granny buys Sally a new car to replace the family’s Volvo, which barely survived the trip from Rhode Island. Although the car does not inspire Sally to get a job, as Granny hoped, it does give her a new sense of freedom, and she begins to leave her bedroom more often.

After initially refusing to let the kids in the car, Meredith’s mother suddenly announces that she is taking Meredith and Matthew into Carmel to visit the man she calls their real grandfather. Meredith is shocked to learn that Grandpa is not Sally’s father, and she grows angry at her mother for denying and discarding their relationship. As the family drives through a neighborhood much wealthier than their own, Meredith becomes increasingly uncomfortable.

Sally’s father lives in a large, sterile house that reminds Meredith of an art gallery. When he answers the door, he stares at Sally without speaking, then ushers her inside without greeting the children. Meredith feels as if she has disappointed her real grandfather without even speaking, and Matthew remains completely still and silent. The visit is awkward for everyone, and Meredith can sense her mother becoming disengaged as time passes.