In Chapter 8, Phoebe is abruptly awakened at noon by a loud knock on her door, where Lila enters, eager to show off a hat she’s contemplating for an upcoming sailing trip. Lila’s presence prompts Phoebe to reflect on the bride’s lack of curiosity for others, especially regarding Phoebe’s own struggles. She finds it inconceivable that someone could enter a room of someone feeling suicidal without inquiring about their well-being.

As they discuss the hat, Lila reveals her insecurities about what her friends think of her, particularly stemming from a mishap at the previous night’s reception, where she felt humiliated. Despite her issues, Lila’s casual demeanor in the morning comforts Phoebe, who is grappling with the aftermath of a secret encounter from the previous night—a moment that she cherishes deeply, similar to how she once felt when meeting her husband.

They discuss Lila’s friends Nat and Suz, and Lila expresses her feelings about her mother’s unrealistic expectations throughout her life, emphasizing the distorted stories her mother shares at public gatherings. As their conversation shifts, Phoebe feels the urge to bring wisdom to the surface about Lila’s proclamations regarding love and friendship, questioning the nature of “wonderful” as Lila describes her relationship with Gary.

This leads to a poignant moment where Lila grapples with the definition of a genuine connection as they joke about the absurdities of life. Lila then unexpectedly announces that she needs to address an issue with her mother’s room, leaving Phoebe to her thoughts. Before exiting, Lila suggests that Phoebe try making her bed to improve her mood, a notion Phoebe dismisses humorously but with a hint of bitterness.

As Lila leaves, she acknowledges the need for coffee, insisting on ordering room service to make their day easier. Lila arranges breakfast, cheekily referring to a dish called “Patriotic French Toast.” As the narrative progresses, Phoebe confronts her reluctance to take part in life fully, weighed down by her thoughts of how she was supposed to be dead. Yet, the prospect of sailing and trying on new clothes left for her by Lila subtly inspires hope within Phoebe, indicating the unpredictable twists in her despairing journey.

The chapter concludes with Phoebe feeling a mixture of disappointment and excitement as she prepares for the day, reflecting on the beauty of life’s unexpected changes that can lift one from despair, even if only for a moment .