Macon recalls his grandfather’s descent into dementia. He dreams about his grandfather warning him about losing the center of his life. Macon initially thinks Grandfather Leary is referring to Ethan, but Grandfather clarifies that he’s referring to Sarah. Macon realizes that Grandfather’s mind began to go once Grandmother Leary died. 

Macon gets his cast removed and then promptly must leave for New York to begin his next guide. He takes the train, following his routines with his choice of clothing and reading material. He feels isolated from everyone else at the station, noticing that most people are traveling with others, and even the people traveling alone seem to be meeting someone at their destination. 

When he gets to New York, Macon begins his inspection of hotels. One owner mentions that the rooms are like a home away from home, to which Macon replies that nothing is really home and suggests that the hotel keep animal companions for their guests. Macon visits a restaurant that is many floors above the city. It’s pricey and seems to cater to special occasions. Macon notices he’s the only one alone. When he gazes out at the city, he feels the distance between himself and everyone he cares about—a feeling so jarring that he drops his wine glass.