They all stood in their mother's shadow.
-- Narrator (What Happened to Samantha)

Importance: Although simple and short, the narrator's observation has far-reaching significance for the characters. The description comes while Sam and Charlie are practicing their relay pass in the hour before Gamma's murder. It seems to indicate that Gamma is such a powerful figure that she casts them all in shadow. The shadow can also be interpreted as a protective covering provided by Gamma for her family members.

Charlie needs to know that she can depend on you. You have to put that baton firmly in her hand every time, no matter where she is. You find her. Don't expect her to find you.
-- Gamma (What Happened to Samantha)

Importance: Earlier in the chapter, Sam and Charlie argued over their failed relay pass. These are Gamma's last words to Sam on the subject of Sam and Charlie's relationship. Gamma knows she is dying of cancer, and this instruction, couched in the...