Chapter 47

Chapter 47 takes a stark and painful look at the abusive relationship between Nina and her husband, Andy. Nina is trapped in the attic for over twenty hours, a punishment meted out by Andy for an insignificant act—using too much air freshener. This form of punishment has become a regular tactic for Andy, exploiting Nina’s love for their daughter, Cecelia, to keep her in line. The chapter exposes the chilling reality of Nina’s daily life under Andy’s control, where every misstep, no matter how small, can lead to further isolation and suffering. The fear and anxiety that build up during her time in the attic give Nina a greater understanding of the depths of her captivity, both physical and emotional. The narrative shows how Andy’s control over Nina goes beyond just the physical space; it’s a complete manipulation of her mind, emotions, and sense of safety.

Throughout her time in the attic, Nina is consumed with worry about what this punishment means for her future. In a desperate bid to regain some control over her body and life, Nina secretly takes a life-altering step: she gets an IUD to ensure she cannot become pregnant. This action is a direct response to Andy’s increasing demand for more children, something Nina knows she cannot endure. With this decision, Nina takes an important step in regaining a measure of autonomy, even as she remains trapped in a relationship where her autonomy has been stolen from her. The IUD, while a simple physical device, becomes a symbol of Nina’s inner strength and determination to protect herself from further manipulation, despite her increasingly fragile circumstances.

While locked in the attic, Nina’s emotional state shifts between despair and fleeting hope. She notices Enzo, working outside, and in her vulnerable state, she accidentally signals her distress, hoping for any form of relief. Enzo’s presence offers a glimmer of hope, and he approaches Nina’s plight with empathy, offering her an escape from her harrowing situation. However, Nina’s fear of Andy’s wrath and the danger that Enzo would face, possibly being deported, keeps her from accepting his offer of help. The delicate balance of Nina’s desire for freedom and her overwhelming fear of what might happen to those she cares about creates a tense atmosphere, and she chooses to remain where she is, bound by fear. Enzo, unwilling to leave Nina in her misery, vows to take more drastic measures if she’s not released by the next morning, promising to break down the door and free her if needed.

Eventually, after a period of agonizing confinement, Nina is released by Andy, though his gesture of kindness is hollow and manipulative. The gifts he brings with him, meant to appease her, serve only as a cruel reminder of the power he holds over her. Nina, exhausted and emotionally drained, finds a brief moment of solace in Enzo’s presence when they have an honest conversation about the abuse she’s endured. Nina opens up to Enzo about the depths of her suffering, recounting the years of torment at the hands of Andy. Enzo, deeply angered by the injustice of her situation, becomes protective and passionate, even offering to take matters into his own hands and kill Andy. However, Nina, recognizing the irreversible consequences of such an act, dissuades him. Instead, she focuses on a more practical and ultimately safer plan—escaping. Enzo, offering his unwavering support, proposes helping Nina leave Andy once and for all, setting in motion the possibility of a future free from the oppressive hold of her marriage. This chapter highlights the complexities of abuse, the strength it takes to fight for freedom, and the small but powerful steps that can lead to liberation, even in the darkest of times. The seeds of hope are planted as Nina begins to realize that there may be a way out, but it will require patience, courage, and the strength to leave everything behind.