Summary

In Chapter 18, Cora arrives home to Wichita with Joseph and Greta in tow. Cora explains that Joseph is her long-lost brother. Upon returning home, though, Cora and Alan speak privately, and Cora reveals that Joseph was her lover, but no longer. She explains that Joseph will live with them and Alan will help him find a job. Alan knows he cannot disagree, and is exasperated. Cora attempts to compromise by suggesting Raymond come to dinner sometime. They agree that their sons, nor the rest of society, will know the truth.

Joseph soon gets a job, and Cora spends time taking care of Greta, whom she walks to her first day of school. Greta is nervous, and Cora reflects on her own difficult school years. When Joseph is finally making money and paying Alan rent, he and Cora rekindle their physical relationship...