Part 2, 1945-1954, Chapter 12 Summary

Niamh is prattling about Tony Murray seeing a Gray girl as Aisling reads about Violet's attempt at killing Elton and herself. Aisling rails about Stone not helping Elizabeth cope before deciding that Tony would be supportive in such a situation. Elizabeth congratulates Aisling on her engagement but declines to be a bridesmaid or to invite Stone. Eileen urges Aisling to pay attention to Maureen, who is jealous of the attention that her wedding is receiving. Aisling picks up Elizabeth at the airport and they arrive at tea time. Eileen is amazed to see an elegant young woman in the place of the gawky child she recalls and Elizabeth spoils her entrance by great emotion. The house seems to have shrunk, is as shabby as ever, but completely welcoming. Donal laughs but is so white and thin that it pains...