Edwin

"*YOU'RE NOTHING BUT A SINNER! Yahweh wanted us to be* equals*, one of each. You were* never meant *to fall in love with someone of your* gender*, Winterlyn. You are only meant to be with a* loving man *and **no more**. The fact that* you*, the daughter I* raised *in Yahweh's* graces*, engaged in **BLATANT TOMFOOLERLY AND ROMANCE** with* that brat*... it is a* sin*. You are a* traitor *to this family!*"
—Edwin shaming Winter for being a lesbian, *Ex-Girlfriend*

**Edwin McCormick** is a minor character in *The Adventures of Evie and Mya*. He is the son of Anny and Darrell, the brother of Barry, Jodie, and Lewis, the former husband of Lorelei, and the biological father of Winter.

## Appearance

Edwin has pale, white skin and smooth, sleek dark brown hair. His eyes are a fiery shade of chestnut.

Edwin wears a tailored, reddish-brown suit with a cyan undershirt and a striped blue-and-red tie. He also wears dark navy pants and brown flat shoes.

## History

### Season 1

#### *Meeting Winter*

When Mya prompts the strange girl on whether or not she has parents, she reveals that her mother is dead and that her father despises her. In her backstory, the girl, named Winter, says that she had a strict, yet loving father. He was also a special link in her life and would take her out for milkshakes or to see the stars. After her mother's death, they grew closer and would always do something fun together. Things would begin to change, however, when her then-girlfriend pushed her to come out to her father, even though Winter wasn't ready, fearing that her coming out would go horribly wrong. Despite her saying a firm no, her girlfriend forced her to come out abruptly one night, and after she did, her father turned crazed. He attacked her, scarring her wrist with his pocket knife, which she then stole for herself. He ordered her to leave in less than ten minutes. Upon reaching the cabin, Winter forged a new life and wrote her father's signature on report cards under the guise he was actually doing it. This changed once he was sentenced to twenty years in prison, a sentence he is still serving for hurting her - and she now uses the name of a relative instead.

#### *Stalker*

Evie and Mya recall how Winter's father branded her as a sin and disowned her.

#### *Ex-Girlfriend*

"*Ten minutes. Pack your things and* **get out of my house***.* Sin *does not* belong *here.*"
—Edwin ordering Winter to leave

After falling in a nightmare, Winter discovers that she is in her old house, horrified by her surroundings - she has returned to the night where her life was ruined. She lays beside her girlfriend, shadowy and mysterious; her father is nearby watching television, snorting at a chewing gum jingle and examining his marriage ring. That night, her girlfriend had asked to sleep over, and they had been intimately sharing affection behind her father's back. Winter strains, attempting to escape, though she is unwillingly pulled back into the nightmare and forced into sleeping, which she detests angrily. Just then, her ex rises from the sofa, and she immediately knows what she's going to say - revealing that she has a secret to tell her father. He encourages her to go on, and nervously, she stands up and whispers to her partner that she's not ready to do this. She doesn't relent, citing that her father loves her and is bound to accept her secret. Winter feels like throwing up her whole skeleton, never wanting things to go this way and feeling humiliated. Defeated, she scrunches up her eyes and reluctantly admits that she is a lesbian to her father, in addition to mentioning that her partner is actually her girlfriend. Silence fills the living room of the McCormick household, so much so that Winter can hear her own heartbeat.

Then, her father steps up to her, demanding if this is true, unsettling his daughter with his tone. Facing the ground, she wishes to avoid his gaze boring into her, mouth trembling. She confirms that it's true - she loves her girlfriend. Outraged, her father growls and slaps her cheek violently, exclaiming that she's a heathen. Mortified, Winter backs into the fireplace while her girlfriend watches the scene in terror. Her father accuses her of going against her morals, running off with a girl, and lying that she was a friend, and she begs that he doesn't understand, but he screams that she's nothing but a sinner. Her father recites how in their culture, she is not meant to fall for the same gender and should be with a man - the fact that she committed sin when raised in the graces of Yahweh makes her a traitor to her family. Blinking back tears, Winter notes that she never wanted this, and becoming enraged at her girlfriend's lack of intervening in the situation, she challenges her father despite having no strong position. She snaps that she doesn't believe in her culture, adding that if there even was a god, he would probably let her love who she wants to love. Pressing on, she affirms that she wants to cut her hair short and wear edgier clothing. She doesn't want to be an average woman, but a tomboy - and all she wants is for him to accept it. Her father shouts her name, pushing her head up against the fireplace brick with the intent to kill her for betraying her Jewish heritage. Using the last of her defiance, Winter tells him that her mother would have never let him do this - she would support whatever path she chose in life and she'd do everything in her power to stop him from hurting her. She is a lesbian, loves girls, is a tomboy, and will stand on her own two feet.

Suddenly, her father rams her head up on the brick, the pain the equivalent of a gun wound, and he chokes her. Knowing she is losing, Winter fears she will die in her house, but out of nowhere, her father begins to mutter words potent as daggers, admonishing her for uttering her mother and Yahweh's names for "wicked" purposes and calling her a traitor, poison, and disgrace. He now sees that her conception was a mistake, labeling her spawn of Satan, and Winter gasps, face pale. Due to her desires to be herself, she is now in severe pain and not even her father's daughter. She whimpers, apologizing hopelessly, and a dangerous idea crossing his mind, he pulls out his pocket knife. Winter stares at the knife in shock as he states that she's chosen to be a sin and has to be dealt with for the decay she caused. Yanking her wrist out, he slits it, and wailing in agony and heartbreak, Winter wildly retaliates and snatches her father's knife, hiding it before he notices. She falls to her knees, blood pouring from the gash on her wrist, and she grips it, but it does little to stop the blood from pouring out and leaking onto the carpet. Still knowing her girlfriend has done nothing to save her and left her to die, she cries. Her father snarls that this is what happens when she's dishonest, insisting that she will forever be judged for what she's done, kicking her and giving her ten minutes to pack her things and leave. Winter, obeying the command, urges herself to run and heads to the bathroom, leaving a trail of blood behind her. She washes the blood off her wrist and bandages it to the best of her ability, then runs to her bedroom and packs her essentials - clothing, her Varien albums, school supplies, her necklace, and her backpack. When she is done, it looks like she never owned her bedroom, now barren, at all. Returning to the living room, she confronts her girlfriend, her father standing nearby.

Later, in another dream, Lorelei places Winter on the ground, stating that she misses her and is happy her father never got the chance to kill her. Winter responds that he's rotting in prison, leaning on her side and adding that she wants vultures to feast on him. Laughing, her mother snorts that she would have dismembered her husband and will meet his end if he tries ascending to heaven for what he did to her. When Winter admits to Evie and Mya that her ex-girlfriend is the root of her problems, they wonder why, only knowing that she ruined her life and turned her father against her. In the first of the ten photos revealed to Evie and Mya, Winter explains that she was given her titular name from her parents because of the snowflake mark on her shoulder, the season she was born in, and the snow that fell the day of her birth. The third photo depicts the McCormick family celebrating Christmas, with Winter noting that her father got her a racecar set. The next photo depicts her at synagogue with father, Hebrew Bible in hand. She describes her upbringing in a Jewish family and celebration of Jewish traditions, adding that sometimes, her father enforced the religion too much and got into arguments with her mother about it. Edwin also believed that his daughter shouldn't wear more revealing clothing while Lorelei disagreed. In the next photo, which shows Winter with a shaved head, she states that she and her mother managed to convince her father that it was a blessing compared to a disgrace.

The sixth photo shows Winter visiting the grave of her dead mother, and she explains that she and her father found it hard to cope with her passing. The night of her death, Edwin slept with her. The seventh photo showcases the connection between her and her father as they sit together at a lake, which they'd frequent after Lorelei's death. Evie, seeing the bond, notes that without Edwin, she'd be lost - and she agrees. The title of the eighth photo makes Evie wonder if it's about her dad, but she reveals that it's about the day she cut her hair shorter - and tying into her thoughts about not being the girl her father wanted. The ninth photo, which is mistakenly assumed to be about her mother, is about Winter stargazing - she comments that her father took her out to stargaze once a week. After Winter's ex is revealed to be Daniela, Evie and Mya connect the pieces, noting that her decision helped to prove that he was a violent conservative. They quickly accept the revelation, and realizing that they care for her more than her father or Daniela ever did, Winter rejoices. Softening, she recalls how Daniela was sweet back in the day, making her father love her. On the mention of Edwin, Evie asks if she knew he was going to be strict, and she replied that he displayed signs of it over the years - such as prohibiting her from cutting her hair or wearing edgier clothing - but grew lenient as she aged. Evie then questions if he was the rotten one, to which she responds that he viewed her being queer as betraying her family and her mother; he hated that she mingled with someone of the same gender. Thinking about it now, he had issues that likely stemmed from the death of her mother, but she is glad that she is alive today. Later, during her confrontation with Winter, Daniela notices that Winter has snatched her father's knife.

#### *Dancing in the Dark*

Evie recalls how Winter's own father turned against her.

#### *There's Something About Mya*

Mya remembers the dark intentions of Winter's biological father, Edwin. As she gives Mya advice over her coming out situation, Winter tells her that being queer is a blessing, something her father hated.

#### *She's Plotting Something*

Rex recalls how infuriated she was seeing how Winter was wounded by her father. Later, Winter reminds Daniela of the times they'd hide under her father's duvet and meet there, but she bitterly states that he attacked her, beat her, and sent her home traumatized. Mortified, Winter protests that she's lying.

#### *Winter Storm Arising*

During her confrontation with Winter, Daniela recalls her ex coming out to her father so brazenly it made her sick, and she notes that she did nothing as he attacked her with his knife. Winter retorts that he did so because he didn't accept their relationship and the fact that she was a lesbian. Some time afterward, Daniela reveals to the school that Winter used to forge her father's signature on her report cards before switching to a relative - even though her father despises her, marked her as a sin, and forced her to run away from home. She snaps that she has nowhere to run with her mother being dead and her father having disowned her. Later, upon encountering Winter outside, Mya remembers how her conservative father denounced her for being queer and cut her. As she visualizes *Snowlight*, Winter remembers how her parents named her for a variety of factors.

### Season 3

#### *Memories of the Past*

Winter recalls running away from home after her disasterous coming out to her homophobic father.

#### *Welcome to Hollowleaf Mansion*

Mya briefly worries that Harlow and Ivanna are homophobic, just like Winter's biological father. Later, Mya recalls Daniela forcing Winter to come out too early to her father, and as a punishment, he cut her with the pocket knife she now owns.

#### *The Dinner Party*

In the flashback, Winter walks up to her father, asking if he has something to eat. He reaches into his backpack and gives her a fruit bar, kissing her, but before she can eat, she hears Daniela scream and rushes off.

### *Winter's Tales*

#### *Birth of Snowlight*

"*Still a little. But I love you, so very much, and I only become angry because I want to keep you safe, remember? I want you to be my perfect little girl, and even if you don't understand, you must listen to daddy's rules. Okay?*"
—Edwin soothing a young Winter

Winter says that while she doesn't know the exact feelings her parents felt when she was born, they did summarize her long-lost baby thoughts for her. Her father is the one who chose to name her after the winter season, as well as the one to add "lyn" to the end of her name, therefore making her legal name Winterlyn. A day after her birth, a doctor discovered a snowflake birthmark on her shoulder, much to the delight of her father, who wanted to shout that she was blessed by someone she can't pronounce the name of. With the additional blessing, Winter's name was born. When her traits came in, she ended up primarily reflecting her mother, much to her father's disappointment. Winter wishes for him to have better luck after he dies. Winter then notes that she had to stay in the hospital for a few weeks due to the risk of her inheriting lupus from her mother, unable to imagine what it would be like for her parents to be given the heartbreaking news that she wouldn't survive, but luckily, she is born healthy and soon goes home with her mother and father. Two years later, freckles form on Winter's cheeks, another trait passed down by her mother, and from the way the latter described it, her father had likely doubled over in pain upon learning that his daughter still had barely inherited anything from him. Nonetheless, he and Lorelei both adored Winter. Deciding to describe her parents, Winter mentions her mother's interest in cats, though she was never allowed to own any due to her lupus and Edwin's allergies. One time, she tells Winter that she'd adopt a cat if she could, finding them fascinating, and Edwin shakes his head, reminding her of her health, to which she sarcastically retorts that he's quite the optimist. She encourages Winter to grow like she and Edwin want her to.

In contrast to her mother, her father is different in both his appearance and personality and has a darker cloud hovering over him, which can't be seen unless he is known the way Winter knew him. Pain fills Winter's heart as she remembers her biological father and the things he's done. He was pale-skinned, his hair dark brown and his eyes chestnut, always focused in on her even when she's peacefully watching something like *Oswald* on her mother's lap, reminding her of Roz from *Monsters, Inc*. Winter also refers to her father as just "Father" and not "Dad" for reasons she will clarify down the line. Her father, known by his real name of Edwin, was doting and loved holding Winter in his arms, but also held a strict side that wasn't nearly as bad as it was in her youth. He cared for her very much and hated seeing her in pain, not wanting her to do anything stupid. When she got in trouble, his personality rapidly shifted due to Winter's lack of understanding leading her to doing what she calls "stupid crap." One day, Winter picks up what she believes to be a yellow Skittle off the coffee table and prepares to eat it, but her father plucks it out of her hand, scolding her by her full name. The young girl cringes and shields her face, unsettled by her angered father, and Edwin demands what she was doing trying to poison herself, noting that she already had candy that day. Winter is confused, and her father informs her that she almost consumed her mother's lupus medication - something she shouldn't even be toying with - causing her to panic and flex her fingers. She apologizes, admitting that she had no clue, and softening, Edwin's fury deserts him. He kneels down and hugs Winter, assuring her that she's okay and learned her lesson. From that day forward, Winter wouldn't touch any of her mother's medicine again. She notes that her father was very protective of her, and when she went outside, was supervised by him or her mother. One time, she decides to act like an ice skater on the sidewalk, the first and only time she chose to do so, and she shouts at her dad to look at her. She soars into the air and lands awkwardly on the concrete, cutting open her knees and making her scream in pain.

She sobs, thrown into hell with the overwhelming pain, and her father yells a near-curse before rushing to her side. Grimicing at her knees, he warns her to be more careful when playing on the sidewalk, hating seeing her in so much pain, and the words upset even Winter more. She feels agony in turn for angering her father, which only pushes them closer together. Winter strives to be perfect for Edwin, curbing her excitement so as to not upset him or make him worried and desiring to be the daughter he wants. In the present day, she proceeds to describe the house and how the trees would create dapples on the sidewalk that she wanted to touch, only to be prevented by her father after a while, not wanting her to get frostbite or burns. The living room of the house was used as a partial game room so Edwin could watch his sports, him being a Washington Huskies alumni, much to the chagrin of Lorelei. She and Winter did watch some games for his sake, however. On the right of the house was a desk where Winter would draw and write with her father. Describing her bedroom, Winter mentions that it was the place her father hugged her and told her she was loved. According to her, Edwin once said that fuzziness was a tender, yet warm feeling. Hiding behind Winter's pillows were her plushies, which she'd confide in when she didn't want to talk with her mother and father. A short hop away from her room was her parents' bedroom and the bathroom. Transitioning away from background information, Winter begins to describe her memories, starting with her first word. When she stares outside the window and sees the snowfall, she exclaims, "Snew!" - snow. Her father swings her around, overjoyed, while her mother attempts to stop Edwin from making his daughter dizzy.

Just a few weeks later, more gears spin in Winter's brain, and for the first time, she walks to her mother instead of crawls, greeting her. Lorelei, stunned, shouts for Edwin, and he appears, demanding what's going on. Upon seeing Winter standing, he cheers and joins Lorelei in embracing their daughter. Winter begins to build a desire of learning how everything functions, starting with figuring out how the TV works, and she realizes that it can turn on and off and switch between channels via the remote. She presses the "GUIDE" button and is startled by numerous gray squares appearing on the TV screen, causing her father to ask what's going on. He sees her attempting to change the channel, questioning what she wants to watch, but as she lacks understanding of the channels their provider offers, she is unable to give an answer. He then puts it on Weatherscan since Winter enjoys the music. Her curiosity increases, but begins to lead her into a hefty amount of trouble, which her father helps to put a cork in when she goes too far out on a limb. On a breezy afternoon, Winter watches her father fertilize the lawn from the top of the car, too young to be helping him. She swiftly gets bored of observing Edwin and finds herself staring at nothing; she glances up at the sky only to find it cloudless and boring as well. Winter turns her head to the right and finds a golden, bug-eyed creature on a shelf, intriguing her. She approaches it unevenly, seeing that her father is distracted, knowing one misstep will send her flying into the floor of the garage. The object is in arm's length, and put in a trance, Winter reaches out and grabs it. Without warning, she looses her footing and plummets into an old fruit crate, with the object hitting her on the head a second later.

She screams in overwhelming agony, and rushing up to her, Edwin exclaims her name, noticing her banged up and cut body. He points out that she should have stayed on the car, making her pout, but he scolds her and affirms that she'll be going back inside and staying with her mother. Seeing the golden creature on the ground, he infers that she wanted to hear about his fishing trophy, and she nods through her sniffles. Edwin promises to tell her about it when she's older before rushing her inside; ultimately, Winter would not learn more until she was three. Soon, another instance of her father's protectiveness shows as Lorelei offers for Winter to help her peel the carrots. Edwin drops his newspaper, eying his wife worriedly, and he reminds her that Winter is quite young to be using a peeler. She retorts that she can use it if she shows her how, exciting Winter, who thinks about the delicious meals that she makes. Handing her daughter the peeler, Lorelei instructs her to mind the blade and grip the carrot as she peels it over the trash can. Triumphantly, Winter takes the carrot and peeler and gets to work, sensing her father's doubts, which prove to be true. She attempts to peel the carrot, instead slicing her finger open, and screeching, she flails and begins to cry. Edwin roughly leaps out of his chair and pulls her into a hug, asking what happened, and Winter chokes out that her finger is hurt, showing him the rapidly-bleeding wound. He chastises Lorelei for not listening to him, to which she counters that Winter made a beginner's mistake. Not having it, Edwin refuses to let Winter handle the peeler or other sharp kitchen utensils until she's older, asking her what would have happened if she cut deeper and severed something like an artery.

Lorelei snaps that stuff like that wouldn't happen, but Edwin tells her to finish cooking while he patches up Winter's wound. He speeds off with her into the bathroom, cleans her finger with antiseptic, bandages it, and then kisses it. Winter apologizes, to which he assures her that it's alright - he understands that she wants to help her mother, but she needs to wait until she's older in order to handle things safely. She questions if he's mad, and he says that he only is a little bit just because he wants to protect her. The two then hug, and Edwin kisses her on the forehead. Winter moves on to the most serious instance of her father's protectiveness: when she got into a close call. She tells the reader to not suggest she nearly died, as she's been through worse, though she walks back on the claim a moment later. On a day near to her third birthday, she romps around in the leaf piles on the lawn; her father supervises her since it's too cold for her mother to be outside. Edwin warns her to be careful, but she asserts that she is, toppling into a leaf pile and scattering the leaves. One pokes her in the eye, and approaching her, her father again warns her to be careful. Winter crosses her arms, indignant, and runs across the sidewalk, plucking a stray leaf out of her hair. All of a sudden, she notices a gray squirrel chewing on a cob nut, and wanting to investigate, Winter makes her way towards it. Edwin, noticing her approaching the mailbox - which she is not supposed to bypass, demands she stay on the lawn, but she doesn't listen. Too eager to learn about the squirrel and following her heart, she creeps ever the more closer to it.

She whispers a greeting, but steps on a leaf and spooks it. The squirrel runs onto the street, and Winter gives chase. Her father snarls at her to stop, angered, but she decides to break the barriers she has been kept in. She passes the mailbox and stops on the middle of the street, the squirrel having already made it to a fence on the other side, and she hears a screeching noise. Alarmed, Winter is mortified by the sight of someone's vehicle about to flatten her, realizing her innocence comes with a catch. She screams and prepares to die, but in the nick of time, is rescued by Edwin, who pushes her to the side. She pants, the world spinning and her head throbbing. Her neighbor, Saul, hops out of the truck and frantically apologizes to Edwin for almost hitting Winter, stating that he didn't see her. Edwin calms him down, saying that Winter isn't allowed out onto the street, but Saul insists that he could have killed her. Edwin doubles down and encourages him to go home, not blaming him for the incident, and shivering, Winter feels tears drip down her face. She now knows it's her fault and not Saul's for her almost dying, and once Saul leaves, Edwin furiously drags her back onto the lawn and lets go of her near a leafpile. Before Winter can scramble away, Edwin scolds her by using her full name, and she yelps, more tears falling. By her father's usage of her full name, she is well aware that she is in deep trouble. She is also surprised that her mother hasn't overheard everything. She begins to protest, but her father cuts her off, telling her that he isn't going to be accepting her excuses, much to her confusion - she doesn't know what excuses are. Her father snaps that her actions were stupid and dangerous; she could have gotten killed or seriously injured, and he also reminds her of the countless times she has been told not to go past the mailbox.

Winter doesn't have the comprehension to understand most of his words, only knowing that her father is enraged with her, and she pleads that she's sorry. Edwin doesn't change his tune, spitting that when he and her mother tell not to do something, she doesn't do it, asking what made her think endangering herself was okay. This makes Winter feel worse, and she collapses on the grass, continuing to sob, the breakdown uglier than her previous ones at Haggen. She can't bring herself to meet her father's eyes, and he instructs her to look up at him. She refuses, wanting to slam her face into the grass, and when he repeats himself, she accuses him of hating her, hiding her face. Winter is apathetic towards her tears at this point, believing her father is going to turn her away, but to her shock, he is stirred by her words. He softens, appearing to be surprised at how she has nearly learned to say "hate," and guilty, he kneels down. Edwin pulls her into his lap, and slowly, Winter relaxes and stops crying. He murmurs that what she did make a mistake and said mistake did teach her the importance of listening to the rules, baffling her, and he simplifies it so she understands she can't go past the mailbox, a clear no-no. She whines, horrified by the thought of her almost dying, aching inside from the events of a few minutes ago. Edwin reassures her that he doesn't hate her, and while he is angry, all things heal. Winter glances at her heels, and he corrects her, to which she protests, not being able to comprehend why his emotions switched so suddenly. Edwin comforts her, promising to not let go, and Winter remains nestled in his arms, relaxing as her father combs through her hair and rubs her back. Ten minutes later, all is peaceful, and somehow, Lorelei hasn't heard any of the drama.

Winter asks her father if he's mad at her, and he admits that he is, but only a little - he loves her immensely and just wants her to stay safe - even if she doesn't understand his rules. She apologizes, and accepting her apology, Edwin leads her inside, choosing to keep the stressful matters away from Lorelei. After the incident, Winter's curiosity diminishes, and she has more regard for her actions when playing and helping her mother out. She detects frost hidden in her father, knowing he doesn't resent her, but is keeping things distant from within. In the present day, she assumes it was his protective side or something to do with communicating his feelings differently. Compared to Edwin, Lorelei urges Winter to be curious, but in small doses to not make her husband furious. One day, Edwin happens to see Winter asleep on Lorelei's lap one day and takes a picture; the picture ends up on the kitchen wire next to the birthmark photo, as both of Winter's parents believe it represents how bonded their family is. Winter's mother also frequently indulges her in bedtime stories such as *The Snow Queen* and *Click Clack Moo*, and each time she flips a page, she is serene, enabling Winter to fall asleep without problem. Her father is not nearly as good as reading bedtime stories. Sometimes, before dinner, Lorelei slips Winter dessert when her father isn't looking. Eventually, Winter turns three years old and has a basic understanding of vocabulary and speech patterns. In addition, she is also able to remember and visualize things more clearly, and she can walk more without stumbling. Her growth pleases her father, who decides that she is ready to go out on a limb and see the outside world.

Winter, upon being introduced to Pinelake Park, enjoys being pushed on the swingset by her mother and father, imagining that she is flying among the clouds and birds when pushed up in the air, and other times, she finds herself running across the woodchips. She does accidentally injure herself a few times, causing her to cry and be bandaged by her father. Soon, the woods capture her attention, and Winter longs to go inside, but her father prevents her, claiming that it's too risky and that her safety is more important. She protests, but Edwin affirms that the woods are off limits, and she backs down, not wanting to make him furious like she did before. For the first time, she finally gets behind his reasoning, unable to bear the thought of disobeying Edwin - she'd go into the woods someday, when she was older. On trips to the supermarket, Winter gets to buy her father the newspaper. Every Saturday in Old Town Pineshadow was a farmer's market that Winter and her father attended, and they'd purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Edwin ties a bonnet around Winter's head, believing she looks cute in it, and this helps Winter to earn admiration from Pineshadow residents. When she is four, Edwin takes Winter to her first sporting event in Seattle - a Mariners game at Safeco Field. Unfortunately, the Mariners are known for their poor record in baseball, which is part of the reason her mother refused to come to the game, not finding it "good sportsball." Edwin welcomes his daughter to Safeco Field, and Winter asks who the Mariners are playing, to which her father mentions the Giants.

He hopes the Mariners will win, as they've been on a hot streak lately, and he explains to Winter that a hot streak means winning a few games in a row. He asks her what she wants for lunch, but she doesn't have any clue, and he states that they'll find something when they get to their seats. To the young Winter, Safeco Field is abuzz with activity, of fans ready to see home runs and Jamie Moyer in action. Winter and her father decide to try out bratwurst, though Winter doesn't like it and will only eat it now if someone put a gun to her head. She and her father rush through the crowds and through drunken people, taking their seats by the bullpen, and Winter observes children squealing, others eating food, and many hoping to see Jamie Moyer in action. She isn't keen on the game, not knowing a thing about baseball, Safeco Field, and sports in general and failing to see anything special in Jamie Moyer. With time ticking away, she becomes bored and complains to her father, who comments that baseball games can be slow at times, assuring her that it won't be long. He offers to explain the rules of baseball to Winter, who halfheartedly agrees, but she drifts off into her own thoughts that lie beyond baseball and the game. She visualizes a dense forest, hearing birdsong, leaves rustling, and wind chimes - the ideal place she wants to be. Her father then whacks her on the back, shaking her out of her thoughts, and finishes his speech. He asks Winter if she understands, and she lies that she does, convincing him that she wasn't trying to be a copy of wikipedia:Snow White (Disney character)Snow White.

The game starts a few minutes later, instantly proving Lorelei to be right: the Mariners score no runs, and the game, to Winter, is over after five innings, eventually concluding in the Giants winning ten to nothing. She senses the pain the fans feel in the poor Mariners performance, and Edwin apologizes to her for the game not being as fun as he hoped it would be. Winter reassures him that there will be better luck the next time, noting that for most of the game, she spent her time daydreaming and swelling with the urge to investigate the woods near the park. After they return home, Lorelei scolds Edwin and huffs that it wasn't good sportsball. A year later, on a summer morning, Winter hears her parents creating a ruckus in their bedroom, which she is allowed to go inside of, and enters to find them putting giant objects on the floor. She asks them what they are, and her father replies that they are suitcases, mentioning that they are about to grab hers. Winter momentarily wonders if her father stores his suits in the suitcases, asking why they're necessary, and her mother admits that they're traveling. This confuses her further, since she doesn't know what traveling is, believing it's a dance seen on TV. Lorelei clarifies that they're going to California, helping Winter realize that they're embarking on a roadtrip to the state she knows is full of blue skies, palm trees, beaches, and Hollister apparel (which she'd kill for). She becomes excited, and her father, vowing that she'll enjoy it, leads her to her room to pack her clothes. While the fastest way to California is via air travel, her parents opt to drive since air travel is too expensive - and also because they prefer to go off the roads. Winter is elated at the thought of seeing both California and Oregon on the road trip, and once the family has packed their esssentials, they set off.

Both Edwin and Lorelei are amused by Winter's abundant enthusiam. The family travels through Walla Walla and crosses the border into Oregon, and soon come to stop for the day at Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Winter describes the lush scenery, spending the day taking hikes with her parents and spotting a doe with her mother. She whispers the stars in the night sky a goodnight when her parents are dead asleep. The next morning, the family leaves Wallowa-Whitman National Forest behind, slightly disappointing Winter, though she keeps the stars on her mind. Her father drives for hours, and getting bored of staring at the trees, Winter takes a nap. She awakens to find them passing Harney Lake, questioning why they can't camp there, and Edwin says that it's too early in the day for them to stop - rather, they will be stopping at Upper Klamath Lake. She asks where it is, comparing it to the clams sold at Haggen, but her father remarks that it's near Ashland and that they'll be in California by tomorrow with his rate of driving. He almost smashes into the rear of the car in front of him, and Lorelei snaps at him to focus on the road, coughing. Later, they arrive at Upper Klamath Lake around sunset, and after Edwin parks their Subaru, he pulls out the materials needed to make s'mores. He quips that it's no trip without them, and Winter is certain they'll be good. He jokes that they will unless she burns hers, making her puff that she won't arrogantly. Edwin then invites her into a hug, and both laugh. Winter moves to her mother, who has just downed her medication, and she asks her how the lake is treating her.

Lorelei murmurs that it's peaceful and exactly what she needs, and when Winter asks if they're really going to be in California tomorrow, she tells her to thank her father for being a great driver. For the rest of the sunset, Winter and her parents trek around Upper Klamath Lake, spotting various fauna. In the evening, Winter's father summons her for the s'mores, and contrary to his original statement, his s'more ends up burning while Winter and her mother cook perfect s'mores. The night passes, and the family departs the following morning, crossing into California. The McCormicks approach their final waypoint, Los Angeles, and they run into severely congested traffic, placing them in a jam. Edwin mutters that he should have guessed this would happen, and Winter chooses to sleep. When she is awoken by a plane, Winter curiously asks why they didn't choose to fly, to which her father says that he likes immersive traveling and wanted to save his money. Another plane flies by, intriguing Winter more, and her mother comments that it's America West. She wonders if they'll ever fly them, but Lorelei states that they're merging with US Airways, with her father muttering that America West stranded him in Arizona for three days. Winter watches the planes fly by, and later on, the traffic clears. Hours after, the McCormicks' journey ends when they finally arrive at Heartbeat Point, and Winter's father parks the Subaru on a cliffside. She is confused by the symbolism and naming of Heartbeat Point, asking where they're going, and her father points her to the beachside, telling her that her sandals won't be necessary, adding to her confusion.

However, upon stepping foot onto the beach, the symbolism clicks with her - the beach is colorful and the sand is warm, giving her pleasure. The main highlight of the beach is the expanse of blue she saw earlier, but this time, it's closer and glittering in the sunlight. Edwin welcomes her to Heartbeat Point, introducing the blue as the ocean, where he first met her mother and later married her. Her eyes refuse to leave the ocean, and the brevity of how special it is to her parents and now her sinks in. When Winter plays with the shore and prepares to dive into the tide, her father warns her to be careful, but his plea falls on deaf ears. Edwin soon approaches her, picking her up in his arms and admitting that she concerned him jumping off of the rock. She asks him what he thought she would do, such as get eaten by the ocean, and he stresses that she could have been sent to Japan via rip currents. Although she doesn't know what Japan is and doesn't understand what he means by the ocean being dangerous, Winter dismisses his concern, believing that it is harmless. Edwin tells her that she'll learn later - now, she needs to dry off and eat lunch. Winter then realizes that she is hungry, rubbing her stomach, and her father mentions a place up on the shore that has food. She licks her lips in anticipation, and her parents head to an outdoor grill cooking fruits, vegetables, and meats on a grill. Winter, smelling the cocktail of food, murmurs that it looks yummy. She gets a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with sushi on the side, and her father also gets sushi as well, sprinkling too much ginger on his.

As the sun sets later in the day, Winter is entranced by the ocean again and can't bring herself to rip her gaze off it. Two attempts to get her attention from her mother fail, so Edwin intervenes, making a move toward her. In her heart, Winter knows the ocean needs her for just one final time. She feels her heart wiliding, sparks of electricity formulating in her and building up until her father reminds her that it's time to leave. Letting the energy soar, she splashes water onto him, and a wave crashes over her, drenching her in water. Edwin opens his mouth to rebuke her, but is immersed in the magic of Heartbeat Point and instead plays with her, splashing in the waves. Lorelei, snorting at them, joins in, and together, the three play on the shoreline until the last of the sun sets, the hues no more than a memory.

#### *Choosing Paths*

"*You will **NEVER** step a single one of your toxic **feet** around* **my daughter** ***again**, you poisonous **snake**. Harm Winterlyn, or **anyone else in my family**, and I'll **make your life miserable**. You hear me, Lewis? You* **HEAR ME***?*"
—Edwin threatening Lewis for hurting Winter

Winter begins to climb up trees, horrifying her father, who tells her to calm down, popping her peaceful bubble. In the late summer days, her parents begin to talk privately behind her back (unbeknownst to her, about her starting school), much to her disappointment, as she believes everyone in the family deserves an equal say in conversation. However, she obeys, not wanting to upset Edwin, and instead seeks the company of her plushies in her room. The more the days pass on, the more her parents' conversations progress, and the whispers become clear to Winter. She overhears her parents mention things relating to her, like supplies, Barnes & Noble, books, and Starbucks, giving her indications that they have been quietly discussing her. What she doesn't know is what the things are for, as she has minimal talent, but she does accept Barnes & Noble, having a like of reading. Winter wonders what her parents are preparing for, thinking of the holidays they celebrate in-between the fall and winter, and while she is tempted to pry them for information, she knows they'll deflect her requests and keep the information a secret - especially her father. She surmises it to be education, but is skeptical. The conversations go on, which result in more items, such as folders and computers, being used, and all this does is confuse Winter. She takes her leave to her room, joining her plushies and staring at the ceiling, wishing for her own seminar. Then, she realizes she can hold one with her plushies, and arranging them all in a circle, they debate on what her parents could be talking about. Her imagination causes Winter to giggle, which beckons the attention of her father. Edwin questions what's so funny, and Winter informs him that she and plushies were deliberating on what he and Lorelei were discussing. Amused, he wishes to join, to which she agrees. If there's one thing Winter loved about her father, he helped her scenarios come to life, animating her plushies as if they were real beings.

Together, they talked and laughed, then rinsed and repeated. They play the seminar game for three more days until Lorelei dashes into the room with a letter from what Edwin thinks is Puget Sound Energy, which should have come with the mail. Lorelei agrees, but verifies that it's not their provider and addressed to them - surprising Winter, who was previously unaware that mail could be sent to two people at once. They head out into the living room, where Lorelei opens the envelope to find a letter inviting them to a family reunion party. The mention of a party excites Winter, familiar with only birthday parties, though she swiftly comes to see that no one is celebrating their birthday. Edwin asks if it's really a family reunion in disbelief while Winter inquires about a family reunion, and reading the letter, Lorelei describes it being at someone's place and having food and drink. He questions how many people are showing up, to which his wife reminds him that he said no McCormick misses a reunion, his words to her before they married. Unamused, he heads to his room to iron his suit, leaving Winter puzzled at how he's so downcast about seeing his own family - something unheard of in the McCormick family. With her alone with her mother, she takes the opportunity to ask her about the family reunion, and Lorelei kneels down next to her, explaining that a family reunion is where families come together to hang out. Excited, Winter wonders if she'll see her family, also wondering how big hers is, and her mother says that she'll be seeing her family, which is large, especially on her father's side. She tucks a few strands of hair behind her left ear. Winter is ecstatic, jumping around the living room and cheering at the prospect of seeing more family, noting her familiarity with a few family members yet not knowing their names.

Edwin returns, furrowing his eyebrows upon seeing Winter jumping around, and his daughter stops, embarrassed. He inquires as to why she's stoked, and Lorelei replies that she's seeing her extended family. Edwin's lack of an answer to her sentence makes Lorelei frown, and abruptly, she asks if Winter is going to see her family, causing Winter to feel awkward. Her mother repeats herself, and Edwin admits that he wants her to attend, but he trails off. Annoyed, Lorelei demands why he's looking at her like she just explained to Winter how to commit murder, earning a cry of protest from her daughter, who doesn't know what murder is yet doesn't want to know details about it. She wonders why her father is so awkward around family, hoping her family isn't evil, and finally responding with more clarity, Edwin confesses that he feels like Winter is too young to go to something like a family reunion, his voice low to drive home his point. This makes Winter indignant, and she snaps that she's not a baby anymore, pointing out that her mother said she could see her family. Edwin retorts that she's still a child and young, adding that he must talk with her mother first, and the ice in his tone quiets her from making any more protests. Lorelei agrees that a child like her can go to a family reunion, reminding him that Winter is not a troublesome child and will have additional family looking after her, rubbing Edwin's cheek tenderly. Despite the nudge, Edwin is still doubtful and points out the drinks, as well as the possibility of someone getting drunk - and the chance that Winter will accidentally cause conflict with his strict family. Winter, irritated that he's speaking like this in front of her, snaps that she's not going to do anything stupid, flabbergasting both of her parents and earning a verbal response from her mother.

Thinking back on it in the present day, Winter does see her father's point and gives him his credit. Her father is shocked by her bold retaliation and relaxes, and Winter remembers the past incidents in her youth where her curiosity led her into serious trouble, and trepidation courses through her. Lorelei admits that Edwin does make a fair point, as Winter isn't at the age where she can decipher right and wrong, and she gives Winter a sympathetic glance. Winter is dismayed, knowing she won't get to see her family now and will instead be stuck with a babysitter who likely won't care about her. Although she doesn't cry, her mother hugs her into her shirt and evaporates some of her melancholy, promising that there will be another day and placing her chin on her head, which makes Winter smile. Suddenly, Lorelei realizes that she hasn't finished the letter and stops hugging Winter in order to continue reading it. Edwin loosens up as Lorelei reads off the rest, which reveals that Winter has, in fact, been invited to the family reunion - and her family is beyond eager to meet her. Gasping, Winter becomes elated once more, and Lorelei takes Winter's side, though Edwin is still skeptical. Winter begs to attend, her eyes wide and pleading, yearning to interact with her kin and learn the family beyond their surface. Edwin and Lorelei turn to each other, engaging in a private conversation for five painful minutes until they turn to face their daughter again. Winter pleads for a second time, and this time, they grant her vindication by nodding. Edwin says that she can go, his chestnut eyes locking her and keeping her in place. He advises her to behave and not do something she shouldn't, which she promises to fulfill, and desperate to prove herself to him, she promises. Winter shares a hug with her parents, and with a new path to travel on, she chooses it and refuses to let anything slow her down.

The night of the family reunion draws near, and Winter and her parents quickly change into their attire. Her father wears a suit while her mother goes without, wearing a shirt with her lupus rashes being visible on her skin. She and her parents head out during the sunset, and she watches the colors fade and backgrounds change from the window. Winter hopes to see the stars, wondering if her family loves them the way she does. Soon, night has completely fallen, and her parents enter Spokane, an area with many special attributions to it. Winter vows to return to it someday, although that day would never come. Finally, after some more time traveling, Edwin parks the car in front of a two-story house, and Winter dashes up the winding sidewalk to the door, earning her a callout from her mother. She studies the scenery and rings the doorbell, and a middle-aged woman steps out, excitedly greeting the young girl and her parents. Debbie's gaze flits to Edwin, who becomes flustered. Winter cringes at the adult affection, made worse by her father's puffing and her aunt squeezing him hard. Debbie then invites them all inside,where Lorelei grabs a glass of Penfolds, and Winter studies the unfamiliar drink. Her father, observing her skepticism, whispers that wine is a drink she can't have until she's twenty-one, praising her for detecting something amiss. She is confused, but doesn't think much of it and relaxes into the cushions. When Bonnie and Jodie each point out Winter's growth and traits, most of which she inherited from her mother, Jodie is aghast that she has no traits from her brother. She begins to feel smothered, looking for someone to save her, and coming to her rescue, Edwin pries Jodie off and tells her that it's not a big deal Winter took predominantly after Lorelei.

Despite Jodie's protests, Edwin shuts her down and reaffirms that Winter is still special, even if she inherited no traits from him. Seeing that she is embarrassing Winter, she retreats and says that it's wonderful to see her. Winter begins to understand why her father doesn't like reunions, believing family to be smothering and corny. After Jodie finds out Winter is watching sports, she snorts that sports is boring and prepares to change the channel to TLC. Edwin stops her, growling that Winter isn't watching that channel. To ease her hunger, he gives her another beef bun, which she consumes just as the doorbell rings. Jodie spills some of her wine as she moves to open the door, much to the frustration of her brother. When Edwin's mother, Anny, arrives, he is repulsed and cautions her on the usage of her cane, but she retorts that he needs to respect his elders, stabbing his chest with it. Winter is irritated, and when Anny whacks her in the back, Edwin pushes her towards the sofa and encourages her to relax instead of smothering Winter. Anny snaps that she wasn't smothering her, and before her son can interrupt, she yells at him to not use God's name in vain. Lorelei jokes that by the end of it all, she's going to be calling the wall people, as Edwin will destroy one with all his frustration. Meanwhile, Steph informs Winter that her grandfather is dead because of cancer. Having prior knowledge of cancer, Winter apologizes for not knowing - her father never mentioned it. Her elder cousin assures that she doesn't need to apologize, hugging Winter and stating that she was younger then, and her parents likely didn't want her to worry.

When Anny becomes unamused by her grandchildren's point of view, she demands they let her tell her stories, or else, she'll cane them on their rear ends. Edwin, noticing the harassment, barks at her to stop, spitting that this is a family reunion and that she will not be teaching Winter anything religious until she's openly ready for such things. She tries to protest, but Edwin cuts her off, threatening to share his opposing viewpoints to her in front of Lorelei and the kids. Winter notes that at times, her father could be a badass. Defeated, Anny surrenders and demands the food, and Jodie tells her that they're cooking it. Winter questions her father on if family reunions are like this, which he confirms - only with his mother present. After Krystine and Pierre point out Winter's similarities to her mother, Edwin complains about everyone mentioning the obvious. He greets them, and Krystine informs him that his daughter is beautiful, asking how he's been. Edwin confirms that he's been fine. The last of the guests then arrive - Winter's uncles, two of which are his brothers, Barry and Lewis. Edwin opens the door, shouting that they're here. He greets his brothers, noting that quite some time has passed since he's last seen them and asking if all is well. Crying crocodile tears, Barry admits that he's very proud of his children, who are each growing up and proving to be successful. Brody points out that they all get his sentiment, and he, Fanny, and Steph hug their father. Noticing Winter, Barry asks if this is his niece, and Edwin, abruptly cutting him off, says that he's aware Winter looks nothing like him - he's been getting a hard time over it. However, his brother affirms that he wasn't going to say that, but rather say that Winter is beautiful.

He questions if she's five, to which Edwin mentions her sixth birthday in December, and Barry notes that's she's growing fast - she'll be starting school in a few weeks. Ten minutes into watching *Shrek 2*, Winter gets bored, hearing the sounds of dinner being made, and she decides to go outside, where her father and his brothers are moving chairs around. She questions what they're doing, and her father mentions that they're preparing to watch sports, telling Lewis to mind the space between him and Winter, to which he retorts that he isn't going to hit her. Winter is baffled at his mention of "hell," but doesn't press further for the sake of the reunion. Edwin instructs her to fetch a chair, and she drags it over to him. He places it down and tells his brothers that they're finished. As the final preparations for dinner are made, Edwin plays cards with Willie and his brothers, and they eventually go outside to watch a rerun of the Apple Cup. When they head back inside, Edwin does not care that Washington State blew out Washington, mentioning that the Huskies would win the next year. As Lewis slowly grooms Winter into trusting him and forcing her to drink alcohol, she repeatedly refuses to get the help of her anyone, including her own parents, too fearful to leave her wayward uncle. Despite knowing her father doesn't want her to drink the strange liquid, Winter eventually concedes.

However, in the nick of time, her father slaps the bottle out of her hands and then punches Lewis violently, causing a crack to fill the air. Lewis screams, crumpling on the floor and putting a hand on his face, then taking it off to reveal a dented, bloody, bruised cheek and a bloody, blackened eye. He opens his mouth, spitting out blood droplets and a tooth. Edwin demands what kind of vile sycophant he is all while the rest of Winter's kin look on in shock and horror; Brody and Jodie beg him to stop, but he doesn't listen. Lewis doesn't respond, so Edwin repeats himself, asking him why he tried to give his daughter, a minor, alcohol - he can't walk around and expect to get away with the stuff he tries to cram down Winter's throat. Lewis snaps that he's done nothing to Winter, but enraged, Edwin growls and strikes him again, making him spit more blood and teeth out of his mouth. He roars that he attempted to corrupt Winter with wickedness and sin, pointing out that she cannot have alcoholic beverages until she's twenty-one and even demanding if he was trying to get Winter killed, mortifying the young girl. She blames herself for what's going on as her father streaks toward Lewis, his form massive and violent, far from who he usually is. He vows that Lewis will never harm Winter or any members of his family ever again, threatening to make him miserable if he does so, snarling with bared teeth. Edwin then demands he apologize to Winter immediately, but his brother spits that he won't, for Winter was the one who was curious about the drink anyway, shifting the blame onto her. Winter's family members are incredulous and livid by the statement, with her maternal grandmother, Krystine, stating that even if Winter did drink, it was Lewis who coerced her into doing it.

Lewis sneers that she's a coward for refusing to do so, making Edwin clench his fist in warning. Winter's grandfather, Pierre, angrily points out that Lewis is intoxicated - if anything, they should ask for Winter's side of the story, as she's a more credible source. Her kin silently agree with him, but her father continues to glare intimidatingly at Lewis. He quickly faces her, demanding what truly happened. For a moment, Winter sobs uncontrollably, afraid, but with comfort from her mother, she admits that Lewis was the one who wanted her to take a sip. Outraged, Edwin strikes Lewis for a third time, dubbing him a feral beast, petrifying Winter, who begs for it to stop and that she's sorry. Lorelei watches the fight, worried. Further admonishing Lewis, Edwin repeats his order for him to stay away from Winter and his family, disowning him as his brother for trying to ruin his family name, threatening him should he ever cross his path again. Winter begs him to stop regretfully, sobbing heavily, and Lorelei intervenes. She demands he ceases fighting now, pointing out how shaken and upset Winter is. He tries to protest, but she snaps that Winter must go home, as Winter is convinced the violence is her fault, asking if he seriously wants her to be traumatized from this. She calms him down, and finally noticing Winter in anguish, he apologizes to her and vows that she'll never see that side of him again. The apology feels raw and harsh to Winter, and she sniffs. Apologizing to the family, Edwin rushes a dazed Winter out of the house, along with Lorelei, who chooses to sit in the back with her.

Cradling her hand, she promises to her that she's okay, but Winter refuses to absolve herself of the blame, hating herself for her actions and placing trust in Lewis, believing her father will kill her - if she had just gotten someone, this wouldn't have happened - and the car ride home is so silent she can hear sounds outside the car. When they return home, Winter's parents usher her to her bedroom and sit side-by-side to her on the bed. Winter stares at her shoes, tears dripping down her cheeks, and nervously, she discovers rage still woven into her father's facial features, making her concerned. She panics, worriying that she's committed sin, but she is soothed by her mother's touch. Lorelei gently asks her if she wants to tell them what happened, eyes brimming with love, though this is not enough to ease Winter's horror and anxiety. She whispers that she's scared, to which her mother reassures her that things like this are always scary and that she can talk when she wants to, frowning at Edwin's present fury. Her mother's more mature handling of the situation and backing of her eases Winter enough, and she agrees to talk about it. Her father's stare pierces her body, making her nervous again, and he icily demands what happened and failing to conceal his hatred of Lewis, eliciting a whimper from his daughter. Lorelei reminds him to be gentle, as his daughter is a young child, and he goes silent. Winter begins recounting the events of the reunion: Lewis joined her on the couch, and they talked normally at first, but then he offered her his drink. Despite her hesitancy, Lewis told her to not act like her father, and she finally thought one sip wouldn't hurt.

Everything in Winter aches, and she keeps her head low. Her father, enraged once more, seizes her wrists and glares at her, snapping that he told her to not get in trouble and demanding why she didn't see how dangerous this was - she could have gotten hurt or killed. Winter tries to protest, but Edwin growls that he raised her better and that she should have gone to him or her mother. He is about to say more, but his fuming horrifies Winter. Lorelei, angered, points her finger at her husband's chin and orders him out of the room, warning him that his fury is causing him to handle the situation inappropriately, and if he continues to be here, he'll only end up traumatizing Winter. Reluctantly and apologetically, he takes his leave and screams elsewhere. Lorelei then explains Lewis getting drunk to Winter, utilizing some of what Edwin mentioned, and Winter is appalled by how the blame is being taken off her, as she disobeyed her father. Recalling his volcanic fury and hwo he turned into an animal, she fears Edwin will act that way toward her, and Winter asks her mother if her father hates her. Somberly, Lorelei clarifies that he doesn't, but is a complicated person due to his strict family background and is protective of her - he once said that he didn't know what he'd do without her. This makes Winter raise an eyebrow, surprised that her father has a soft side, and she inquires if Edwin loves her that much. Cupping her cheek, Lorelei says that he gets mad easily and can be violent, something that she shouldn't have had to witness tonight. Winter asks if she's mad at Edwin, to which she replies that she'll deal with him later. Right now, Winter is her priority. Deviating back to Edwin, she reassures her that he is so protective of her because he loves her for who she is, and nothing in his heart will change that. Winter catches her breath, no longer thinking she will be rejected, and she questions if her father won't act like an animal.

Her mother admits that while she can't entirely guarantee that, Edwin still loves her nevertheless, as does she, and they do everything in their power to protect her - she is safe now. Edwin only wanted to protect her tonight, and while it wasn't entirely right, she has nothing in the world to fear. Slowly, Winter drifts away from her father's brutality. The days pass by, and Winter and her parents move on from the family reunion incident, which now serves as a lesson to Winter: never trust everyone in your life, as you'll never know what they're fully like, but also moving on from mistakes and not letting them define you. By following the rules, her father hasn't gone feral and has actually softened around her, taking her on trips to Steak N' Shake to get milkshakes; together, they try numerous flavors and have fun. Winter becomes interested in racecars, asking her father if he knows any, though he lacks the necessary knowledge to fully answer those questions. He admits his surprise that she's into those, and she retorts that she isn't like the other girls her age, earning a chuckle from him. Her mother soon joins on the milkshake trips and gets a sugar-free milkshake that fits her dietary restrictions. Other times, the family plays outside, and Winter looks up at the stars, forming a connection she doesn't understand the purpose of, yet welcomes. One time, her father calls her back in for the night, but she requests five more minutes to look up at the stars. Not knowing how he can keep granting her leniency, he sits down by her, learning that she likes the stars and finding it "something." He asks if she can see any constellations, but looking up at the sky, Winter can't find anything among the many stars that form a constellation. Edwin encourages her to look harder, spotting one and guiding his eager daughter along until she sees it.

He explains that it's Perseus, named after a hero in Greek mythology, and he says that it's part of Greek history. While constellations are hard to find, she can discover them if she just looks closely. She glances up at Perseus, stunned by its beauty and wondering if she's just as special as the stars. Around this time, the talks between her parents resume, and they discuss the next step of her life. By now, it's late August, and summer is slowly beginning to fade out in favor of fall. It is near the end of the month when Winter's parents approach and reveal to her that she's going to somewhere new. Excited, she inquires about it, and her father announces that she's going to school, which she had forgotten about since the reunion. Winter questions what school is, and her mother explains that it's a place where she can learn and make new friends, causing her to become jovial. She exclaims that she can't wait for them to watch her learn, though her mother chuckles and clarifies that they'll be dropping her off, not staying with her. Disappointed, Winter starts to fear that her parents are going to abandon her, and frightened, she asks if they're going to abandoned her. Her father swiftly asserts that no such thing will happen - rather, she's just going to school for a few hours and will have company - and when the day's over, she'll be picked up and taken home. Brightening, Winter chastises herself and declares that she's ready. Her mother mentions that they have her supplies ready, asking if she wants to see them, and she agrees, elated. She is satisifed with the set and the supplies. Three days later, she is taken to her elementary school, Small Pine Elementary, for the first time, and after a student-parent orientation, Winter is left on her own. She prospers in school and frequently informs her parents of what she's learning.

Upon being taken to the Pineshadow Outdoor Mall for the first time, Winter notes the family places her family would look through and eat at, mentioning that Allen Edmonds is her father's go-to place for his apparel. One day, Winter stumbles into a fancy store, scenting perfume, and she walks in only to be pulled back out by her father, who strictly tells her to never step foot in there again. She protests, but he growls that they're gross and don't cater to women, baffling her heavily. Her mother agrees with Edwin, stating that Abercrombie's CEO "isn't a nice guy" and "hates equality." Although Winter is bollixed, she doesn't oppose her parents' distaste of Abercrombie and instead walks into Hollister, only to get yanked out again since Abercrombie owns it. She recalls watching *Chicken Little* with her father there, though Winter dislikes the movie immensely. The most special place of all is the Barnes & Noble near to the AMC, two-stories and full of books. Winter notes that her parents encouraged her to read a lot, and as such, she roots through the books the store holds. When Winter and her mother go shopping for Christmas, they go to Target, with her mother later noting that they need to get groceries for Edwin. The rest of December passes by until it's Christmas morning. Winter wakes up, seeing her parents' gifts to each other and to her, and she thanks them. She opens her gift to find the racecars, running around the living room in celebration, and her father says that it's hard for him to believe she likes racecars. He is elbowed by Lorelei and promptly corrects himself, asserting that it is a good choice.

Winter's mother admits that she knew there was something in them that'd make her like them, and to Winter's delight, the racetrack can be mounted on her wall. She hugs her parents, and using a mount, Lorelei takes a picture of them together. The photo joins the sacred photos on the kitchen wire line. It reminds Winter of cherishing what she has, something she didn't learn until later. After Christmas, her life goes down a new, unexpected path - part of her destiny - and an arcane part of McCormick culture. On the first Friday after Christmas, Winter is watching *That's So Raven* on the couch, waiting for *The Fox and the Hound* to come on, when her neatly-dressed parents emerge. Her father tells her to get ready for something important tonight, but she protests that her favorite movie is about to be on, to which her mother reassures her that she can watch it on DVD when she gets home. Plus, she's required to attend this event, so she should put her best self forward. Not knowing what she's going to, Winter dresses appropriately and travels through the sunset with her parents, arriving what is dubbed by her as castle and holy place. Marveling at the architecture, Winter is astounded and follows her parents inside, and the interior decoration captures her attention. She finds the place special and magical, stars shining in her eyes, and her mother whispers that it'll get even more magical. Once her family and everyone else takes their seat, a man appears on the center stage, welcoming his guests. Winter finds his voice strangely soothing, though she doesn't know what's going on, questioning her father, but he silences her and points her to the man.

When the man stares at Winter, she wonders if her parents just signed her up for a peaceful cult. After Rabbi Kealer introduces himself to her, he tells Winter to sit with her parents. Her parents praise her for her induction, with her father telling her to abide by every commandment in the Torah - no misbehavior is allowed. Gulping, she asks for the total amount of commandments, and upon her father's mention of six-hundred thirteen, she is aghast. Edwin hugs her, promising that they'll help her and encouraging her to let her heritage shine through. She ponders on how she'll get through this and school, but with her mother's additional promise of teaching her, Winter adjusts her position and decides that she's ready. She sits through the homily, listening in, and when it's over, she gets up. However, her father urges her to sit down, wanting a photo to commerate the occasion, and she complies. Winter grabs her Torah, places it against her chest, and her mom snaps the picture, deeming it perfect. It comes to join the kitchen wire. Winter quickly studies the commandments, naming out the first five and her opinions of each and knowing she has to obey them at all costs, or else her father will be furious. She researches her Jewish heritage with her mother's help, discovering Sabbaths and that, at the age, of twelve, she'd celebrate her womanhood with her bat mitzvah (which would never happen). Her family is also kosher, which means she is restricted to certain types of meat and seafood, and are non-swearers. In addition, Winter learns that her parents are Ashkenazi Jews. She asks her parents numerous questions about her religion, coming to see that her father was right: it is a major part of her. She comes to see the importance of the Stars of David on the fireplace, representing her and her parents, and this side of her becomes special. She vows to obey her father no matter what.

#### *Transformations*

"*Winterlyn, here's my tip for you: I wouldn't try to* fit in *with the "cool" people. They'll influence you negatively. Dress appropriately and* modestly*, keep your shoulders covered, and avoid wearing anything that is found to be* suggestive*. Professionalism is very important, my dear, and so is the image you present to your Jewish community. Make them think* highly *of you.*"
—Edwin trying to keep Winter within the lines

Winter has outpaced her father's expectations in regards to learning the facets of Judaism. She spends every day reviewing it with her parents, learning some crucial foundations of the Torah, such as giving respect to elders (even some she does not like), not imitating others' suggestive or non-ideal clothing (she pleads with Edwin to leave people alone), not cutting hair at the temples (her father is very strict with this rule, though she doesn't fully understand it), and men and women not wearing the opposite clothes to their gender (she'd disagree with these statements later as well). She refrains from asking her parents stupid questions and prays to Yahweh with her parents, but grows bored and tired at synagogue with the lengthy homilies. Her father whacks her on the back one time, urging her to pay attention to Rabbi Kealer. Outside of synagogue, Edwin personally teaches Winter Judaism lessons, as he himself is a devout follower, and he has many whims for Winter to follow, wanting her to be the perfect woman. After school ends, she finds him in his office, explaining the commandments and views he wishes for her to obey. Winter hopes that Yahweh is watching them as her father promised he would, hoping Edwin hasn't lied to her. The lessons continue, and as they do, Edwin pushes Winter's schoolwork to the side, needing her to concentrate on her religion more due to its arcane text and how it has to be honored. She obliges, much to the annoyance of Lorelei, who reminds her to pay attention to her homework, which she does (mentally telling her father that homework and religious teaching can coexist together). In the present day, Winter regrets thinking that her father knew what was best for her, but she moves back into the story. Winter notes that it was her duty to protect her Torah from damage, and if it were to be damaged, it'd be a heavy offense. Her father warns her to not harm it or destroy its purity, or else the consequences would be hefty. She nods, and her father states that he has faith in her.

Twice a day, her family prays, in the morning and at night, wishing for happiness, long lives, love, and time spent well. They also share a common heritage being Ashkenazi Jews - having family members who lived in the time of the Holocaust. Winter is mortified to learn of the genocide of millions of Jews, mentioning that on her father's side, her family hid in their residence in Austria, fearing of being murdered, all while World War II and the destruction it brought raged around them. Her father explains to her what the Nazis would do to the Jewish and any other minority they despised, sobbing upon hearing the distressing torture methods and genocides, saying that while he is aware of her pain, people like them have always been hated then and in the present day - but the times of the 1940s are gone, and they are now free to live as they want whilst serving as valuable members of their community. Winter takes his words to heart, though she doesn't understand what he fully means just yet. After turning seven, Winter longs to explore the Piney Woods, but her father forbids her from doing so. She innocently asks if she can venture into the Piney Woods, but he gruffly denies her permission, claiming that the woods are dangerous for young children like her and that she would be risking her life by doing so. Despite her protest that she'd be safe, Edwin doubles down, reminding her that she doesn't know how to survive in a forest, urging her to not even think about it. Dejected, she again pleads for him to join her, but he scolds her for asking more than once, affirming that his decision is final. Winter plays elsewhere at Pinelake Park, and no matter how many times the more alluring Piney Woods calls to her, she chooses to obey her father (who insists she'll just get injured) and his beliefs since the Torah does state that she must respect her elders.

utside of nature, Winter develops an interest in photography and filmography, and she uses her mother's Polaroid to take blurry, messy pictures, so much so that she kills the battery on more than one occassion. One time, her father observes that the Polaroid has ten percent, asking Lorelei why this is so, and seeing Winter near twenty finishing photos, he mutters that Moses help him. In demurral, he chastises his daughter for taking photos without asking Lorelei, and with a smile, Winter remarks that she doesn't think she cares if she uses the Polaroid or not. Edwin retorts that the Polaroid was expensive and that she shouldn't drain the battery so quickly, startling Winter, and itching from stress, she begs that she didn't mean anything but snapping pictures. Lorelei, exhausted, demands if her husband is upset Winter is using the Polaroid, to which he reveals that she left it at ten percent taking twenty pictures. Ignoring him (adding to his frustration), Winter asks her mother if she likes them, and Lorelei kneels down to examine the collection. Instantly, she is delighted, commenting that they're great and even suggesting that she could become a great photographer someday. Flooding with pride, Winter questions if she means it, and Lorelei kisses her in response. She glances up at Edwin, ordering him to not police their daughter's interests, and defeated, he heads into the kitchen. Winter wonders what her mother meant, and sighing, she explains that he wants to protect her, but he has funny bones even she doesn't understand. Winter agrees with her mother, knowing her father is too nosy for his own good. Winter soon develops an interest in sports, convincing her father to buy a frisbee so they can play with it around sunset. Edwin isn't confident about it, but Winter tells him that she isn't going to get hurt by the object, inviting him to play. They begin to throw the frisbee around, and soon, they spend days playing with it as the sun sets, heading back in near nightfall. Winter climbs up trees, being an adept climber, displeasing her overprotective father.

He begs her to come down from one tree, and after butting heads with him momentarily, she obliges. He quips that she's adventerous, and she says that she always has been. Gradually, Winter's personality grows more crass, and she takes up even more interests, like studying animals in the area. She points out to her father an ant mound, and he instructs her to not touch it, which makes her sarcastically roll her eyes. When Winter discovers new television shows she likes, her father analyzes their contents to ensure she isn't learning or seeing anything inappropriate; she attempts to watch *The Grim Adventures of Billy & Mandy*, but her father changes the channel, bluntly stating that it "glorifies sin" - even though the "sin" depicted in the show is actually satire, irritating Winter. Whenever she gains more interests, her father polices her to make certain she isn't learning or engaging in anything sinful, and his overprotective nature exhausts her, though at times, her mother is able to quell it. She wonders why her father is so desperate to keep tabs on her. On mall trips, Winter approaches Hot Topic and becomes interested in the content displayed in the window. She notices a bloody rose one time, and pressing her face against the glass in awe, she utters that it looks cool. She desires the tanktop, but her father thinks otherwise, sternly pulling her by the collar of the shirt and reminding her that the Torah calls for modesty - the tanktop would reveal her shoulders, which is not modest. Winter, indignant, stamps her foot on the ground and snaps that she isn't going to wear that to synagogue, causing him to warn her to watch her language. She is shocked by Edwin chastising her for seemingly nothing, as well as his supposed belief that she isn't following the Torah.

Continuing with his scolding, Edwin states that is is disrespectful to not wear modest clothing, not wanting her to get in trouble, and he asks if Abraham founded their religion on talking down to others or not. Knowing she must remain obedient and that her father is right, she apologizes, and he takes her somewhere else in the mall to find clothes. Intimidated, Winter doesn't understand why her father acts the way he does, but now knows that her religion must be followed, refusing to think about her actions being taboo. Her father's grip on her tightens shortly thereafter; in school, her classmates share hot takes and debates that she partakes in, with the biggest take happening when her teacher, Mr. Cho, is absent. The substitute, Mrs. Broadwillow, aggrivates the entire class and is rude to the students, shouting at Winter when she gives an incorrect answer on a math problem. She sulks throughout the day, and when she is picked up, her father swiftly notices her anger. He demands what happened, and she bitterly spits that the substitute was stupid and was mean to all of them for even the slightest mistakes. Before she can say more, Edwin glares at her and orders her to be respectful, and they both name the nineteenth commandment, not to slander, at the same time. He reminds her to be respectful of the sub, even if she didn't like her, as it's the sub's responsibility to teach her when her teacher can't. Disappointed he isn't listening to her, Winter agrees and pouts, but he tells her to stop - Mr. Cho will be back tomorrow, and she's bound to get through school tomorrow. Feeling more contempt at how no one is listening to her, she mutters that everyone hated the sub. Suddenly, her father grips her shoulder, alarming her, and he snaps at her that the Torah doesn't permit spiteful remarks. He orders Winter to stop misbehaving, to which she reluctantly concedes, but she wishes he could have actually seen the extent of Mrs. Broadwillow's behavior.

Nevertheless, she stays quiet to avoid being punished and pushing her father too far. Unfortunately, she makes this mistake just a few days later. At recess, Winter is meandering when she is deliberately tripped by a snotty classmate, and she gains a cut knee that is patched up by a teacher. She seethes for the rest of the school day and when she gets picked up, which again, doesn't go unnoticed by Edwin. He asks what she's mad about this time, and she growls that a stupid classmate tripped her at recess and didn't even apologize for cutting her knee. This proves to be an error on her part, as her father seizes her shoulder and demands if she's forgotten what he told her: slander is prohibited, and she should not be going around slandering people when she does not know them personally. At once, Winter is furious, feeling a dinstinctive rage running in her body, and she hisses that she has a right to complain, believing the boy does deserve to be punished, Abraham be damned, and here her father is yelling at her for breaking a commandment. Winter is stunned by her outburst, but feels like it is worth it, not regretting a single thing. The moment doesn't last, however, as her incredulous father becomes enraged, overtaken by animosity. He screams her full name, terrifying her, and he roars that she cannot defy the Torah - it is a sacred scripture she must obey, not swear on, and worst of all, she took the name of Abraham in vain. He inches closer to her, so close that Winter can feel his breath on her cheeks, and horrified, she pins her back against the car door, beginning to cry. She knows that this isn't her father, demanding to herself what she has done, and she fears she has committed sin with her outburst. Shutting her eyes, she pleads that she's sorry and didn't mean to be a sinner, but to her surprise, her father relaxes. He looks down on himself, guilty and on the verge of crying himself.

Confused, Winter prompts him, and Edwin immediately apologizes for snapping at her. He admits that he disobeyed the Torah himself, and brushing her cheek, adds that they shouldn't have said what they said - but he forgot that she's a child. He affirms that she is not a sinner, promising that he won't hurt her. Winter, unsettled, doesn't respond, and upon arriving home, she waits for her father to leave the room before asking her mother if they can talk. Lorelei agrees, pointing out that she can tell her anything, and when she sees Winter's anxiety, she questions what's wrong. Winter explains everything, from her father's vicious argument to his baffling behavior, lifting the problem off her chest. Lorelei is supportive but also irate at Edwin for twisting the commandments to her, apologizing in his stead. Winter grabs a pillow, asking if he'll snap at her like that again, and her mother assures her that she won't let that happen. She isn't in trouble, and if her father has an issue with letting her rant, he'll get what's for. Coughing, Lorelei kisses her daughter and tells her that she and Edwin love her very much, and although the latter shows his affection differently and wants her to follow religious morals, he does indeed care for her. Believing her, Winter hugs her, firmly thinking that her father does love her and that she loves him regardless. Later, when chokers become a popular fashion trend, Winter pines for one and gets her chance on a family trip to the mall, seeing them being sold by Hot Topic. She begs her father for one, though he is disgusted by their spiky appearance. A customer walks out with a choker around his neck, and Winter points to it, but this does nothing to augment her point to her father. Edwin bluntly refuses to purchase a choker, stating that they're too suggestive and a violation of commandment fifty-nine: not to imitate their customs and clothing.

Winter scoffs, her mother in silent agreement with her, and she replies that they're just a type of accessory and harmless. Her father doesn't believe that, retorting that they paint an image in violation of the Torah and contain bad messaging, something he does not want to influence her for the worst. Humiliated and enraged for being told to not wear basic accessories, Winter forces herself not to toy with her father's temper and keeps quiet, not wanting to alert the public to an argument. Edwin then chalks up advice for her, urging her not to fit in with the cool kids and to dress modestly to present a professional image to her Jewish community. She responds by sticking out her tongue at him, frustrating Edwin, but her mother intervenes before he can scold her, firmly saying that this is a car conversation. She continues, asking if he believes he's being too hard on Winter, and in disbelief, he demands how she found out about that. Lorelei snaps that Winter told her what he's been doing, to which he mentions her misbehavior, but she counters that he can correct that without using the Torah. Edwin protests that she must follow the Torah, which Lorelei is well aware of, but she points out that he's twisting the commandments and shouldn't be overprotective of Winter, especially with his manipulation of Judaism. Watching the petty fight unfold, Winter is embarrassed and longs to disappear, and her father shouts that their daughter has a wild soul and will get killed if her actions aren't moderated. This strikes a nerve in Winter, who is even more humiliated than before, and she thinks that her father's claims are outlandish and lies. She cries, but brushes the tears away and encourages herself to be strong for her father. She wonders why he acts this way, knowing deep down that she loves him - but he seems to put Judaism first, before her.

As the days progress, Winter feels Edwin's shadow hanging over her in her religious teachings, and detecting the frost in him from her younger years - a permanent affliction - she questions her father's darkness and his inability to put the family above Judaism. Edwin doesn't improve in the weeks following, hovering over Winter's every action to make sure she doesn't break any commandments in the Torah, and he scolds her for things that could easily fall under misdemeanors. In one instance, Winter compliments clothing at the mall and reacts favorably to a pair of ripped jeans at Hollister. Her father rebukes her since the clothing is apparently "suggestive," and Lorelei exclaims that she didn't even mention wanting to buy it. Winter is baffled and only grows more agitated as the instances keep adding on. Her father keeps scolding her for light swearing, liking other clothing, mentioning non-Kosher meat, joking, losing (and failing) to find lost objects, and using possessions that aren't her own, among other things. Their arguments only escalate, and her father pressures her into obedience by reminding her that the Torah bars fighting with words and disrespect to the mother and father. Winter is also compared to the rebellious son, much to her ire. She and Edwin keep arguing back and forth, refusing to budge on their opposing viewpoints; her father grows worse and worse. Winter's annoyance morphs with dismay as her father continually turns on her mother for defending her. In one argument, Lorelei demands what's wrong with him, telling him to stop contorting the Torah to Winter. He retorts that he's protecting her from evil, but she snaps that he's being a brat to her. Lorelei adds that she won't let him get away with this, pleading for him to see the bright, gifted child that Winter is and not to mess with her perception of Judaism by twisting the Torah. As Edwin speaks, Winter tunes out of the argument, noting that she overhears many of these fights in another room and is forced into a box by them.

She begins to feel trapped, her growth stunted, and besides her own issues, her mother grows tired of having to constantly fight Edwin, reduced to labored movement. Guilty that her parents are fighting over her, Winter wonders what she did to deserve this, beginning to question why she should be Jewish if it only makes her family war with each other. She remembers her parents teaching her about Yahweh, but feels like he is a fake and inauthentic - and possibly a name her father only brings up to keep her in line. Although Edwin says she has a lot to thank Abraham for and that the "Holy Three" will advise her, Winter doesn't feel as if these statements hold any merit, finding conflict with herself over her heritage. She demands the actual meaning of prayer or speaking to nonexistent people, wondering if they are speaking to ghosts, but she never dares utter her thoughts out loud, unable to imagine what Edwin would do to her if she did. These revelations combined are the first secret Winter hides from her father. Upon meeting Beasley and Remi, Winter talks with both about various subjects, omitting details about her father, though it doesn't help that Beasley is well acquainted with Edwin. He reveals that he attended university at the same time as Edwin, who was socially introverted and a "square." Surprised, Winter says that her father has a hot temper, which Beasley agrees with, giving her jazz hands for emphasis. Later, Winter uses her saliva to slick down her hair, which her father doesn't notice, and she takes her place with her family at synagogue. When Winter develops a budding friendship with Abigail, Edwin tells her that while he likes their friendship, she needs to sit down and pay attention to Rabbi Kealer. Sheepishly, Winter obeys. From then on, she and Abigail become close friends, meeting outside synagogue while their parents become acquainted with each other, though her father has a few reservations in regards to their friendship.

One time, Lorelei says that their acting skills are through the roof, and they gaze up at her, Torah copies in hand. Abigail tells her that they're trying to be Lindsay Lohan, affirming that Winter is better than her, and while Edwin says that it's lovely, them being on the floor is a fire hazard. The girls get up, and he instructs them to sit down and curb their rambunctiousness. He winks at Winter, and Abigail questions if her father is a tough guy, to which she nearly states that he's a pain in the ass. She figures that it's complicated, and Winter mentions that she still loves him nevertheless. The two laugh it off and sit at their different benches. With their friendship, it becomes difficult for Winter to concentrate on homilies and teachings, making her father scold her and remind her that she can play with Abigail later. Winter notes that she rubs off on her too much, part of the reason she is hardly able to concentrate at synagogue along with the conflict with her heritage. Soon, it's winter season in Pineshadow, and Winter has turned eight years old. She romps in the snow and plays with her father. When explaining to Winter why Abigail moved on from her, Lorelei mentions her father's change in behavior, and she agrees, noting that he wasn't as strict in youth as he was now. Accepting that Abigail has moved on, Winter finds comfort in her family and friends, though her father continues to supervise her, confining her to Jewish teachings and disappointing her greatly. However, what happens next in her life proceeds to change her forever. On a late evening, her family has dinner at the mall and decides to go into Barnes & Noble, immersing herself in the atmosphere of the store. She walks to the puzzles section, only to get interrupted by a clerk who tells her to check out the music section upstairs. Wasting no time, Winter bolts up the escalators, her parents following behind her, and heads into the music section.

After listening to *The Ancient & Arcane*, Winter begs her parents for the album, showcasing just how much she loves it. Her father points out that they have no way of playing it, but Lorelei rebuffs that they have a CD player, and he agrees to buy it - but not tonight, as the store will close soon. When Winter hums *Snowlight* in the kitchen, confusing her father, and she clarifies that it's one of Varien's songs. He comments that it's nice, reminding her not to stay in her room all day, and she promises not to. This is a lie, since she spends at least two hours in her room playing the album on loop. Longing to find what's behind Varien's alias, Winter seeks a way to the internet without her father intervening, as he believes she shouldn't have social media until she's at least ten or eleven. Once she obtains her mother's phone, Winter leaves the door ajar, not wanting to make Edwin suspicious; she discovers Varien's features, such as his nose ring, and notes that her parents (especially her father) don't allow her to wear one. Soon, Winter convinces her parents to buy Varien's collab EP with 7 Minutes Dead, *Mirai Sekai*, and rambles on so much that her father momentarily drops his strict persona and laughs at her fangirl behavior. Later, when Varien comes out as transgender, Winter notes that her parents never mentioned what that is to her, vowing to keep her internet history on her mother's phone a secret from them. She examines herself in the mirror and recalls her father's comments about her feminity, as well as his efforts to distance her from masculine clothing and ideologies, and these combined anger her. She thinks that her father can't decide her role and what she wants to do with her life, choosing to make her own decisions, so she spends more time in the bathroom to examine herself.

Beginning to think she could be transgender, and not wanting to anger her parents, Winter does research on the subject and deletes her search history on her mother's phone so her parents don't find out. She admits that due to her father's comments, she suffered a bit of gender dysphoria. After a while of researching, she wonders how she'll obtain gender-affirming care without her parents knowing. While she believes her mother will be accepting if she does come out as trans, her father will be furious, and that notion makes her conceal her aspirations from her parents. She fears rejection if she comes out as trans, and thinking of Edwin, Winter refuses to a say a word for her own safety. Noting that Lewis was sent to rehab, Winter is extra careful with her internet history and resolves to hide the truth from her parents, wondering if she's facing the risk of being disowned. Later, upon identifying as a lesbian, Winter also decides that she is not transgender, liking her body for the way it is and not wanting to throw away her name. Even with her father's opposing views, she doesn't want to make herself incomplete, already feeling proud of herself for coming this far. However, she hasn't informed her parents about any of this, not knowing what they'd think about her attraction to girls and not men or her previous transgender musings. She feels scared thinking of her strict father and regret at not being honest, noting that a McCormick is honest, and by lying to her father, she fears his wrath. Despite being terrified, a part of her tells her to come out and get it over with, but Winter refuses, fearing that she will be eradicated. She feels like she is playing with fire, knowing many's typical view of love between a man and woman while she supports queer love, and adding to that, her father keeps politics out of the house to prevent controversy.

By now, much of Winter's thinking is modified, and with that, she has changed - especially since she has also deviated from her father's religious teachings. She notes that there isn't room to break standards, and although Edwin wants her to be obedient, she doesn't see the value in Judaism and feels oppressed by it. She is exhausted from her father's backbreaking standards and his preaching that Yahweh is God - when to Winter, he just seems like a tale, as are Abraham and Moses. Winter yearns for liberty, but her father prevents that out of his belief that he is protecting her, which makes her furious. She notes that her father isn't doing her favors overstepping her boundaries, and like her, her mother hates it just as much. She notes everything her father has done to make her obey the Torah, such as preventing her from swearing, making her quell her opinions, halting her from cutting her hair, stopping her from wearing masculine clothing, and prioritizing her gender over her own interests. She silently rebukes him, as she figured out everything she needed to without his help. She mentions her father's expectations for her future: be perfect, marry a man, and carry on her bloodline, though she thinks his ideas objectify women, calling him selfish. Edwin explains to her the importance of fulfilling her duties and carrying the bloodline on, to which she protests that it's not fun, and he quips that she's just like he was at her age before his mother taught him otherwise. He asks her if she knows just how lucky he was meeting Lorelei, and she reluctantly nods as he re-explains that story to her. What truly sets Winter to deviate from her heritage permanently is when her father decides to take a shot at Varien.

She repeats that she loves Varien, mentioning that she has to conceal her transgender identity from her parents with her previous pronouns. One evening, she spends her time listening to *Ghost Spores*, trying to figure out the meaning of Laura Brehm's lyrics, and she decides to risk asking her mother and father for insight. She jumps up to her father and asks him for help in identifying the meaning behind *Ghost Spores*, and he listens as she explains Laura Brehm's verses to him. She asks if it involves ghosts, but he tells her that she should be able to find it out on her own since she's more familiar with Varien. She begs him to try, insisting that she loves "him" and just because she's a fan doesn't mean she knows everything. Edwin, raising an eyebrow, questions how much she loves Varien, dumbfounding her, and she admits that Varien is her idol, describing how much "he" has influenced her. Her father stops her, asking if "he's" her idol, which she verifies. He warns her to be careful, as idols can be a bad influence and cause harm, causing Winter to become outraged. She retorts that Varien would never do such a thing to her, not holding back, and Lorelei watches the fight. Edwin asserts that he isn't mad with Winter for liking Varien or talking about "him," but the matter is she shouldn't let idols discourage her from deviating from religious teachings. Winter is overtaken with fury, and clenching her fist, she defies her father that Varien is awesome, demanding he see what's in front of him - Varien's a huge influence, and "he" won't be taken away from her. Edwin is shocked and prepares to scold her, but at that moment, Lorelei intervenes, telling him that Varien's real and that he can't deny Winter her right to idolize someone. He tries to counter with the Torah, but Lorelei snaps that Winter liking Varien is normal, questioning if he hasn't seen how passionate she is. He insists he's trying to protect her from bad influences, but coughing, Lorelei rubs his cheek and says that he is not protecting Winter by doctoring the commandments and will not be punishing her for liking Varien - someone she finds neat.

Winter squeals, her respect for her mother increasing. Edwin attempts to protest, only to get told by Lorelei to sit down, and fleeing to her bedroom, Winter puts on *The Ancient & Arcane* and skips to *Hypnotique*, sinking into her thoughts. She is annoyed that her father is using the Torah to confine her to expectations, not caring if she sanctifies Yahweh or not. Believing others will laugh at her family if they find out her father's behavior, Winter believes that her father is embarrassing, noting that she hides her Torah so it can't be seen at first glance. Instead of praying to Yahweh, Abraham, or Moses, Winter prays for her own god, someone real to her, believing that the "Holy Three" would have clubbed her father by now for his behavior - and also feeling pain staring at the Torah because of her father, refusing to be Jewish. As she visualizes *Ghost Spores*, Winter recalls the things that have tainted her innocence, including her father's attempts to twist her heritage and gender values against her. Refusing to be the girl he wants, she breaks her chains of conformity and renounces her ties to Judaism, noting that it's another thing she'll have to hide from her parents, who have luckily not barged in on her. She vows to not listen to Edwin or the Torah, but herself, her father be damned. More months pass by, and the seasons pass until it is winter, Winter's favorite season. Lorelei has hunkered down again, and the rest of the family is committed to protecting her. In the midst of her parents' own personal issues, Winter focuses on herself, contrasting the new, crass, outspoken her from the old meek her who obeyed teachings.

Despite feeling free, Winter detects something missing, and upon studying her long hair, she realizes she wants it cut in a new hairstyle. She is reminded of the past and her father's restrictive ways, and choosing to have it cut, she approaches her father and asks for a haircut.
Edwin nods, stating that it is getting long, but when Winter mentions wanting a different hairstyle, he says that her current one fits. She insists that she's older and wants to try something different, but stiffening, her father states that getting her hair cut short would be disloyal to her ancestors' beliefs. She tries to protest by bringing up Varien, but under the guise that Varien is male, Edwin denies her request, much to her frustration. She tries to say that she likes "his" hair, but Edwin chastises her, promising to make a regular appointment when it stops snowing. However, it doesn't stop, and every time she approaches the subject with her father, he scolds her for swerving away from the Torah. Despite her urge to snap at him, she fears that he'll figure out her every secret and reject her, but having enough of his gatekeeping, Winter seeks counsel from Beasley and Remi during a banquet at Harmony Hollow. Remi greets her, and Winter states that she needed time away from her parents. Beasley figures that Edwin is bothering her again, to which she admits that he won't let her cut her hair short, wondering if it's really that wrong. Remi reassures her that short hair is okay with modern standards, encouraging her to express herself, and Winter appreciates their company. She then asks to tell them something she doesn't want her father learning about, and when prompted by Beasley, confesses to being a supporter of the LGBT+ community, not mentioning that she is a lesbian and adding that her favorite artist is transgender.

She is relieved when they both accept her and share knowledge of Varien, with Beasley being happy Winter looks up to her. He urges her to ignore Edwin, since he believes he knows everything when he doesn't. Winter thanks them, feeling much more comfortable. After getting advice from Rabbi Kealer, and with the only pushback being from her father, Winter concocts a plan to get her hair cut, using Hanukkah - one of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar - as cover. Upon deciding she wants Rihanna's side-shave style, she approaches her mother when her father is out of the house. Lorelei instructs her to sit down on the bed, and Winter admits that she wants her hair cut shorter, to which her mother points out that her father doesn't like it when she brings that up. Her daughter retorts that she doesn't care, wanting to make her own decisions. Lorelei hugs her, praising her, but questioning if she's sure she wants this. Winter asserts that she wants to listen to her heart, and persuaded, her mother agrees despite the risk of Edwin disagreeing. An hour later, Winter's hair has been cut, and she thanks her mother for doing the task her father despises. Suddenly, Edwin returns from his trip to Haggen. Lorelei invites Edwin to the hall, noting that Winter has a present for him. He inquires if it's for Hanukkah, but she responds that it's for him to see, and Winter knows he will be angered by her decision. He demands what the present is, and in that moment, Lorelei tells Winter to reveal herself. Immediately, she reveals her semi-shaved head, causing him to shake her; he demands what she's done, and she admits that since he refused to let her cut her hair, she had it done her own way. She remains calm, as does her mother, and Edwin reminds her that she can't cut her hair at her temples, and she retorts that some hair isn't meant to be long. As it's the middle of Hanukkah, her father becomes irate, snapping that because of her behavior on such a sacred holiday, Yahweh will curse them.

He grips her shoulder, hissing that he expected better of her and that she should be ashamed for violating a commandment, fearing she will be shunned and have her lineage tainted. Winter doesn't flinch, and having enough, her mother intervenes, telling him that Winter's new hair is a blessing and what Yahweh would have wanted - Winter is allowed to follow her own expectations. Edwin points out that the Torah said she isn't supposed to shave her head, but rolling her eyes, she snorts that women do have autonomy; besides, Winter isn't bald, and if Rihanna can have the hairstyle, so can their daughter. Lorelei winks at Winter, and Edwin is left to process these developments. After a minute, he sighs and concedes, supposing that Winter can keep her new style if it's a blessing from Yahweh. On the last day of Hanukkah, Winter is allowed to light the menorah for the very first time with her father's help, and Lorelei snaps a picture of the moment. The picture joins the kitchen wire.

#### *Dawn Will Bring Us Death*

"*I take back every scolding I ever lent to you, Winterlyn, my beautiful daughter. You* are *wonderful. You* are *special, and you don't need the Torah to* stand out*. While I still want you to understand that religion isn't just something you can make vanish with a snap of your fingers, and while I always want you to remember your roots and the ancestors that blessed your birth, as well as* some *of their standards to ensure no sin... you are* my everything*. Here, in this room, right now, you are* still *my everything, and more than ever, I* need you *as you* need me*. We need* each other*... and I may mess up, and fail, and judge. But I* will *be here as your parent. Your* father*. I won't let you grow up alone. We won't go to synagogue if you don't want to. I promise.*"
—Edwin apologizing to Winter for pressuring and scolding her

After months of fighting with Edwin, Winter has gained her own autonomy, revealing that her haircut took place on her ninth birthday and believing that because of it, her father was more lenient since he didn't want to ruin it for her. She moves on, noting that tensions in the family have relaxed considerably, and her father is no longer so strict and adamant on her following the Torah; her mother also gets some much-needed peace and rest now that she isn't fighting with Edwin. Winter now has everything she wants, albeit with one price. Her father gifts her a straw hat she immensely dislikes, and she asks why she has to wear it to synagogue, to which he responds that the elders could see her semi-shaved head as a bad omen, and that would destroy their reputation. With his tone communicating that the decision is final, Winter grows annoyed, wishing he'd go to Lids for a ball cap, but then realizing that the hats could be too tomboyish for his likings. Despite her objections, Winter goes along with wearing the straw hat, but is agigated by how itchy and unpleasant it is on her head, and it takes her nerve to not stomp on it in a show of defiance to her father. Although her father's temper has cooled, Edwin still doesn't take nonsense from Winter and monitors her actions, leaving his shadow in her sightlines, but nevertheless accepting her for who she is. He tells her that he can't keep her hair long nor halt her from the choices she makes - even if he has concerns, he'll always love her, and her happiness matters more than his own opinions. He hugs her, giving her a kiss on the forehead. In the present day, Winter asks him how it feels to eat his own words before returning to the past. Pineshadow is soon enveloped by the winter season, and Edwin works to clear the driveway and sidewalk, with Lorelei helping by ordering him online supplies.

Lorelei's joints become stiff and achy from lupus flareups, rendering her with pain, and her husband and daughter both urge her to rest. Her health spiraling, per Winter, is not an option, and with Lorelei taking breaks as instructed, Edwin makes her food. Winter mentions that her father is actually a good cook. Lorelei's rashes accumulate en masse on her body, causing her father to buy her numerous lotions containers that she burns through, but lotion does nothing to stop the rashes from building up. One time, Edwin points out her rashes, asking if she should consult with her doctor, and exasperated, Lorelei insists she's alright - it's just the weather. Winter is not reassured by her words, knowing that her mother is a fighter, but still weak, and with every year, her lupus symptoms are worsening. She fills with dread, debating whether or mother is fine or not. Besides her concurrent symptoms, Lorelei also has a sore mouth, which prevents her from eating solid foods. Knowing she can't substain a proper diet on liquids, Edwin resorts to spoon-feeding her solid foods, which he did for Winter when she was a baby. Lorelei is embarassed, but nonetheless takes it by the horns, needing the nutrition to substain her brittle immune system. Being her father's assistant, Winter provides comfort for her mother, supporting her with many hugs and kisses and telling her that she loves her so much, urging her to not let lupus win. Winter mentions that she's come so far partially due to her mother's understanding of who she is, as well as her help in easing Edwin's strictness so she could grow. Loving Lorelei with all her heart, Winter promises to be herself whilst also being there for her, resolving to stop worrying about her father, making a bucket list of things for her and her mother to do - and declaring that lupus won't tire her out. On their excursions together, they usually spend time without Edwin, such as when they picnic in the house.

In another excursion, Winter mutters that her father won't let her go into the Piney Woods, but her mother assures her that she can visit the forested area near Old Town Pineshadow. Sometimes, Winter's father joins them, and holding her mother's hand, Winter thinks about the concept of death, knowing her parents will die someday and become unified with the stars. Noting that her mother is winning her battle with lupus with her strength, she prays for her to live a long live and for her glow to never be diminished by lupus, hoping that she is being heard. In mid-spring, Lorelei takes Winter to the mall for another shopping trip, and with the lack of her father, Winter freely comments on any type of clothing she can find, much to the joy of her mother. When Lorelei offers Winter a chance to go into Hot Topic, she does a double take and thinks of her father, but with a second prompting, she agrees to go in. Not caring about the claustrophobic feeling, Winter lays her finger on every item and every piece of clothing, internally noting that her father wouldn't let her buy anything, and her mother hollers that she fits perfectly even with her father's beliefs, giving her a genuine smile. Upon spotting a necklace and deeming it it non- flashy and not enough for her father to complain about, Winter glances at the price tag, a whopping two hundred dollars. In disbelief, she grows disappointed, as it's out of her father's budget range. Her mother offers to buy it, and Winter turns around to find Lorelei pulling her wallet out of her pocket. She points out that her father doesn't like overspending on their budget, but her mother whispers that she got paid recently - plus, as Edwin isn't allowed to interfere with their time, they can be a little insurgent.

Winter feels validated that her mother has given her something her father won't give. In the spring, Winter successfully harvests basil and demonstrates her collection to her father, who sneezes due to the scent. After Winter is stung by a yellowjacket, Lorelei rushes her into the kitchen, calling for Edwin, and he appears, displeased that he has been interrupted from watching *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia*. Lorelei retorts that the sun will still shine in Philadelphia, revealing that Winter got stung by a yellowjacket. He grabs the first aid basket, and Winter sits down in a chair, exhausted and pained. Once her sting is treated, she joins her father in the living room, and he asks how she got stung. Winter says that she accidentally provoked the yellowjacket, burying her face in a pillow. Soon, summer arrives, and Lorelei makes peach tea for Edwin and Winter. As Winter has recently been released from school, it is around time for her family to come up with summer plans, and her mother admits that she wants to ask Edwin if he'd be willing to drive back to Heartbeat Point. This elates Winter, and Lorelei promises to tell him later. She also praises Winter's haircut, further validating her since Lorelei does things her father won't ever do. After returning from a shopping trip at Tuesday Morning, Winter calls out for her father, only to find him not in the living room, catching her and Lorelei off guard. Winter is especially worried, fearing a freak scenario has gone on while they were away, causing her to clutch her mother's blouse. Lorelei calls out for Edwin, heading in the direction of their bedroom, and to Winter's relief, he is in there talking to someone over the phone. Her mother orders her to give her a moment to let him finish, and he reveals himself to be talking to his brother, Barry, asking about a woman's condition.

Winter ponders about who he's referring to, and her father questions if her mind is failing, and it dawns on her and her mother as to who he's talking to. Edwin, wrapping up his call, tells Barry that while his relations with his mother are strained, he'll talk to Lorelei and Winter before taking action. Winter remembers her religion-obsessed grandmother, Anny, who made up stories about God and became upset if the Lord's name was taken in vain, noting that her condition seems dire. She shudders, thinking about the concept of daeth again. Lorelei pushes open the door, and glancing up at her, Edwin mutters that he can't believe this is happening. She inquires about the status of Anny's health, to which she reveals that she stopped eating and drinking and is in the hospital. Winter freezes, knowing her impending death is near, and her father adds that she'll likely die soon, not prepared for her death. She steps up to him, and he looks at her as she recalls hearing about her grandfather's death - now, with her sharper memory, she can acutely remember a death. Edwin urges her not to fret due to her grandmother's age; her time has been approaching for years, and she cut most of the family out. Winter, not entirely shocked and knowing her father can vouch for this behavior, asks if this is so. Nodding, her father places his hands on hers, telling her that even though he doesn't have the best relationship with Anny, she's still his mother and has convinced him to open up to people like Lorelei. Although she hides it, Anny does love all of her family, including Winter herself. Lorelei agrees with Edwin, planting a kiss on his cheek, and he says that he will be living in Leavenworth with Barry for a couple of days since Anny's hospital is there, and it will be agonizing and grueling - and when he comes back, it'll probably be hard for him to adjust to seeing his wife and daughter again. Lorelei asks if Fanny is the sensitive one, which he confirms, revealing that she still believes her birth caused Sheila to divorce Barry.

Winter is shocked by this information, feeling for her cousin and hating Sheila for putting her in such a hard place. Her heart aches at the notion of her father going away indefinitely, and despite her conflict with him, she can't imagine what he's going through right now. Both she and Lorelei hug him, with Lorelei encouraging him to stay out in Leavenworth for as long as he needs and to send them texts - she'll take care of Winter - and she will support the cousins throughout this. Winter seconds her, telling Edwin to inform her cousins that she wants to give them a hug and loves them very much. He thanks them, and the family hugs. They all silently vow to pray for Anny's death to be peaceful and one where she reunites with Darrell in heaven, though Winter prays to her animal gods, requesting that they ignore her crazy side and give her light. The weeks pass while her father is away, and frequently, she worries for her father, which worsens each day. She notes that her father is well acquainted with death and dealt with the passing of his father, rendering Winter unable to learn what Darrell was truly like, and now, her father is losing his mother - which will make him and his siblings orphans. At the thought of losing both parents, Winter becomes mortified, thinking of what would happen if she permanently lost her own parents and believing she would be in darkness, her heart ashen, back turned to the world, and lacking anyone to cling onto. Thinking about being alone and losing everything haunts Winter, and she gets a startling epiphany: her father has been through the death process before and will see another decay and a dead body belonging to another one of his parents. He's stressed and will witness Anny's last moments on earth, the same moments he witnessed when his father died, and Winter's heart quickens until her chest hurts.

She knows her father is going through one of the ugliest aspects of life, and despite her qualms with him, she wishes for him to come home smiling and not for him to be a hollow, nebeluous corpse. Lorelei urges her not to worry about him and to believe in his strengths, which she doesn't doubt, recalling his resolve and temper. When Lorelei speaks with Winter about her grandparents, she urges her not to worry about them or her father. Winter is relieved with the knowledge of her grandparents living their best life, hoping to see them again as she hopes with her father. While doing chores, both she and Lorelei await news from Edwin, and they are put under strain; Lorelei in particular struggles since she has been through so much hardship to get where she is. She and Winter attempt to live life normally in the meantime, and before going to bed on many nights, Winter vents her worries to her mother, who snuggles with her and promises that she loves her, will do anything for her, accepts her, and will keep anything to prevent death from breaking their family apart. She takes in Lorelei's love, finding it to be the perfect gift, and she silently urges her mother to stay strong and thrive for years to come, declaring that she loves her. Winter expresses her desire for her to stay alive, or else, the world would be full of emptiness. Two weeks after Edwin's depature, he finally calls, and Lorelei answers. Winter sees her face fall, knowing immediately what has happened before her mother tells her in words: Anny has died. She nods solemnly, certain her grandmother has found peace and has stopped being delusional. Even with her bizarre beahvior, Winter did like her first meeting with Anny, who was the sole link to her deceased grandfather, and she notes that death impacts them all. Once the call ends, both Lorelei and Winter think about the future and Edwin coming home, and Winter greatly misses his presence and him being the person he is, which helps to make the McCormick house what it is.

Winter prays to her animal spirits, pleading for them to bring her father back, and the next morning, her words prove to be true. While eating breakfast the next morning, the door opens, and Lorelei rushes out from the kitchen. The person who has just entered the house looks at Winter, greeting her, and she excitedly runs into him. Her father twirls her around, chestnut eyes shining, and Lorelei exclaims that they're happy he's home. The family embraces, and Winter feels tears splashing on her cheeks, realizing that they are coming from her father. For the first time, she sees how fragile he is, having forgotten that he is a human - capable of making mistakes and being see-through. Edwin is more than just a strict father, but also a man willing to keep his family together by any means. Lorelei, interrupting her daughter's analysis, puts a hand under her husband's chin, checks in on him and encourages him to get comfortable, but he reminds her not to tucker herself out and take things one at a time. Scratching behind her ear, she apologizes, expressing her relief that he's home and stating that she's sorry for the loss of Anny, recalling the loss of Darrell. Edwin notes that his mother is at peace now and relaxing in heaven, also noting that Winter's cousins are alright, including Fanny. He asks her to make him what she's currently cooking in the kitchen, and cuffing him over the ear, Lorelei tells him that he's causing her to use up the rest of her French toast ingredients before walking off. Winter hugs her father again, and he admits that he's so happy to see her again. Winter says that she missed him, mentioning the spooky atmosphere, but he observes that she and her mother kept each other company and held down the fort.

Smiling, she tells him that she loves him, and Edwin affectionately returns her love, calling her his favorite little girl. Winter, overjoyed by his words, notes that a moment like this could have lasted forever, her family unified in everything. However, that proves to not be the case. Soon, fall has reached Pineshadow, and Winter plays in the leafpiles her father works to rake up. She has absorbed the confidence and cockiness of her fourth grade self, ready to make her mark in the world, and as for her family, they have moved on from Anny's death - her father is back to his old self, and while he retains his issues with some of her behavior, he has fully accepted her hairstyle as Yahweh's blessing. An unusual amount of illness spreads within Pineshadow, and with the danger, her mother goes into quarantine. This leaves her tasks, such as gardening, up to Winter and her father, who are also careful to disinfect to make certain that Lorelei does not contract any illness. Unfortunately, her lupus symptoms flare up violently, becoming her worst flareup in her entire history with the disease; rashes attack her skin and are relentlessly itchy. She goes back on a fluid diet due to her sore mouth, and her arms and legs stiffen, limiting her to selective movement. Winter and Edwin help her get up and walk, trying to alleviate her symptoms in any way possible, though their efforts prove to be futile all too often, and they prepare to spend their entire budget. The babying annoys Lorelei, and she insists to Edwin that she is fine and doesn't need to be fussed over. He insists that she exercises to help her muscles, but she doubles down on her claim that she's fine, worrying Winter, who knows that she isn't fine. In slight pain, she agrees with her father and urges her to move around, eat, and drink. Lorelei concedes to her daughter and gets up, stiffly walking laps, and her family makes her more liquid food.

When Winter wakes up sick, she believes that her mother can hunker down while she recovers with medicine. Without warning, she breaks out into a minute-long coughing fit, startling her and her father, who comes in to check on her. Upon seeing her ill, he examines her and deduces that she has a cold, urging her to stay in her room while he makes her breakfast and calls her in sick. He quickly returns with water and her breakfast, promising to get her cold medicine later and leaving to check on Lorelei. She struggles to eat through her coughing fits, only happy she's not at school. Her mother shelters away in her room, causing her to feel worried and frustrated over the intentional dissonance, hoping that she doesn't make her mother ill. Her father comes back with the cold medicine, asking her what's wrong, and she confides in him that she doesn't want her mother to avoid them. She coughs, and reminding her to cover her mouth, Edwin states that Lorelei is quarantining as a protective measure for the family, and when she comes out, life will return to normal. Winter yearns for her sickness to be over, but her symptoms worsen, and her father proceeds to also fall ill, clocking in with a high fever and runny nose. By now, Lorelei spends most of her time in her bedroom and has her food delivered to her by Edwin, who cannot come in with her - yet she also chooses to make her own food as well. Two days later, Winter and her father's symptoms ease, and they eat beef, rice, and vegetables at the dinner table with Lorelei. Noticing her mother picking at her food and not eating it worries Winter, who raises an eyebrow, and her father also sees this behavior. He questions his wife on if she's not hungry, and she nods, half of her soul gone. Her daughter asks if she's okay, catching her off guard, and Winter senses the pain and alert in her mother. Lorelei insists that she's alright, but just tired, and her stuttering heavily concerns her family.

She excuses herself from the table to use the restroom, taking a step before she clutches her chest, swaying and collapsing onto the kitchen tile. Both Winter and Edwin scream her name at once, and Edwin runs to her side, attempting to help her in vain. Petrified, Winter wonders what is going on with her mother, who has gone lifeless and eerily empty. Momentarily, she frets that she has had a heart attack, but her father snaps her out of her thoughts and additional screaming, urging her to listen to every word he says. She nods, and Edwin orders her to stay with Lorelei, remain calm, and keep her breathing while he dials 9-1-1. Winter hesitates in trepidation, but with more insistence, she runs and performs CPR to the best of her ability. Four minutes later, paramedics arrive and lift Lorelei's body onto a stretcher. Winter and her father hop into the ambulance, speeding off in the direction of Travis J. Wong Emergency Center; Lorelei is hooked to an IV tube, and Winter feels the world spin off its axis. She worries about running out of time, sobbing her heart out and coughing. Five minutes later, they arrive at the hospital and dash through hallways before Lorelei is wheeled into a room behind a blue curtain. Winter cajoles her father into not ripping it off, insisting that they probably don't want to know what they're doing to her mother. She doesn't know where to find any confort, seeing her father's eyes lacking color, and while she tries to breathe in and out, she remembers the horrific scenes of her mother's collapse at home. She tells herself to be realistic, but questions why the world is on fire. After what seems like ages, a nurse emerges from behind the curtain and admits that Lorelei's prognosis is not looking great, and Edwin demands her status, to which she replies that her immune system is weak, coated with mucus and fluids, but she's having liquids injected into her body.

She is also thin, having not eaten much, and Winter and her father collectively realize that Lorelei was sick all along and hid it from them. Both deflate with the news, especially Edwin. The nurse says that they will run more tests, confident that this is more than a cold, and observing that the two are sick, she states that they'll need medical attention as well. Edwin protests that he can't leave Lorelei, but the nurse retorts that their illness requires medical treatment, leading them to a different room and leaving Lorelei to be tended to by other nurses. Fifteen minutes later, the doctor, Dr. Dee, enters the room and requests their names, which Edwin shares. The doctor infers that they are sick, and Edwin prompts him on his wife. Dr. Dee promises to get to her shortly, and Winter ponders about why he's so relaxed. Pulling up their medical records, Dr. Dee finds no abnormalities and begins his examinations of Winter and Edwin. After multiple rounds of inquiries, he diagnoses them both with pneumonia, and realizing that her father was incorrect, Winter figures out a disturbing truth. Dr. Dee cuts off her thought, urging her and her father not worry since this variation of pneumonia is not deadly - and since it is already dying in their bodies, antibiotics will fend it off. He gives both respective antibiotic bottles, and they thank him, with Edwin encouraging him to check on Lorelei. He rushes off to do so, and the silence gives Winter time to process the truth she is now aware of. She leans up against her father, admitting to him that she thinks her mother has pneumonia, but he denies it frantically, telling her to not think like that. She points out that they must have passed it to her, but Edwin silences her again, and Winter chastises herself inwardly for worsening her father's anxiety.

She thinks of her mother as she holds onto her other parent, and soon, Dr. Dee returns. His face is dismal and solemn, and worried, Winter immediately knows what he's going to say. He confirms that Lorelei does have pneumonia, but this time, there's a catch, horrifying Edwin. Dr. Dee adds that Lorelei's lupus compromises her conditions, as the fluid stored in her lungs combined with her recent flareup practically severed her air supply. Winter is stunned, and Edwin begs for her to be okay, which Dr. Dee confirms. However, Lorelei must stay at the hospital indefinitely and will be hooked to an IV and antibiotics - they will see tomorrow if she is able to eat solid food. He thanks the doctor, and knowing her father is sinking to the lowest point in his life, Winter notes that she can't lose her mother, who's helped her through many hardships, including her trials against Edwin. Feeling dread and letting herself cry, she promises to her father that she's here, and Dr. Dee leaves, encouraging them to pray for Lorelei and have hope for her recovery even if nothing is guaranteed. Winter tells herself to hope, remembering her mother's resolve and will, convincing herself that someone is listening to her. Her father moves her onto his lap, encouraging her to pray to the Holy Three for her mother's recovery, though she instead prays to the animal spirits, bleeding hearts, and bird feathers, holding nothing against her father as she hugs him. Later that night, they get to see Lorelei hooked to numerous machines and sleeping. The nurse explains that although they were able to pump fluid and food into her body, she is struggling to function and needs rest, but they are welcome to stop by and visit her tomorrow. Both blow kisses to Lorelei, saying that they love her before returning home, taking their medicine, and heading to bed.

The next day, the house is hollow and ghostly without Lorelei's presence. Winter and Edwin check back in after dinner, heading up to Lorelei's room, and the nurse shares with them good news: Lorelei is awake, and she turns to face them, smiling through her respirator. The nurse explains that she has to rely on her respirator to breathe, but she can talk in small amounts - not too much due to exhaustion. They acknowledge this, and she takes her leave so they can talk to Lorelei. The latter greets them, and Edwin expresses his relief that she is awake, to which she assures him that she's okay, trying to put her hand on his chest. He puts it on her mattress, urging her to rest and wanting to speak to her privately, if it's fine with Winter. Winter says she can wait outside, dipping out and not eavesdropping. The nurse passes by her, asking her where her father is, and she remarks that he's speaking to her mother alone. Shortly afterward, Edwin pokes his head out, informing Winter that her mother wants to speak with her, and she heads back into the room. Upon speaking with her, Winter's hope that her mother will survive builds, determined that she'll make it through, and her father agrees with her. Despite their hope, it proves to be extremely misplaced. One day later, Winter return to school with her classmates and is in the middle of being taught the Battle of Wounded Knee when Ms. Smallbison receives a call from the front, and she informs Winter that she's being signed out. Appalled, Winter has no clue what's going on until she meets her frantic father in the lobby, and yanking her by the wrist, he reveals to her that her mother almost went comatose due to her body refusing food and drink. Winter spirals into hysterics, her hopes for her mother fizzling out, and fearing her death, she sobs, barely able to be comforted by her father throughout the drive to the hospital.

Upon arriving, they rush to Lorelei's room, and Edwin demands an update on her condition. The nurse reassures him that she has been stabilized and is taking in food and drink, but there is an additional problem. He prompts her, and Winter leans up against him. The nurse confesses that Lorelei is weak and that her lupus is overriding any efforts to combat her pnuemonia, and despite Edwin's insistence that something can be done, she solemnly says that they can give her medicine - but too much will give her unintended consequences. Calming her father down, Winter asks if they can see her mother, and the nurse grants them permission to do so. Inside, they find Lorelei with a thinner, gaunt, and rashy body, her clothing hanging loosely around her, her body hooked to more machines. She opens her eyes to find her family, cracking a faint smile, and nearly stumbling to his knees, Edwin tells her that she looks just as beautiful as she did on their first date. Remembering it, she claims it was a time to be alive, and stroking his hand, she thanks him. He urges her to fight, knowing she's seen her demons, but she can't leave this family and give up on him, Winter, and all she has. She vows to keep battling, breaking out into a coughing fit, and she demands to speak to Winter privately. Edwin obliges, leaving the room, and Winter reluctantly approaches her sickly mother. As she speaks to Winter, Lorelei praises her from deviating from Edwin's standards. When she begins to indicate that she'll die, Winter panics, but keeps her tone low so as to not alarm her father. When the conversation is over, Winter shows her father the box her mother gifted her, and questions if that's truly the birthday present. Winter confirms it, agreeing that now is the right time for her to have it. She states it's everything, and her father echoes her sentiment.

An ember of hope soars in her heart, but a day later, it dies, as her mother is now past the point of no return. On the next visitation, she is asleep and so thin that her muscles are protruding, her skin unable to contour to her bones. Edwin is in dismay over her condition, and Winter observes that nearly every machine and a toilet bag are hooked to her mother, rendering her unable to move. The nurse reveals even more bad news: Lorelei is unable to process any food or drink due to being backlogged with mucus, and because of her condition, she can't have surgery. Edwin demands why, preparing to lose his nerve, and Winter is uncertain on if her mother will survive, recalling her hints of dying from the previous day. She holds onto her father as the nurse lightly explains that Lorelei is too fragile to be rushed into surgery - if she is rushed into one, she could fall into a coma or at worse, die - and the most that can be done is for her to be hooked to machines. Crushed, Edwin takes up Lorelei's hand into his, whimpering, and Winter prompts him. Instead of answering her, he begs for Lorelei to survive, wanting her to see Winter grow up, which hits a nerve in Winter. Her head spins, and she digs her fingernails into her father's back. She tells herself that her mother can't die, not after she's fought lupus for so many years, insisting that death will not happen. Noticing the faint rise and fall of her chest, she prays with her father for someone to listen and keep her mother from being forgotten, but rather alive and with lupus diminished as a threat. Both Winter and Edwin hope for a miracle and that Lorelei will heal, hug her daughter, and share her favorite snacks and wine with her husband. However, this thinking proves fruitless, as Lorelei's weight has dropped below the healthy amount; her skin has sagged away from her bones, causing them to jut out, and her body is covered in rashes.

Winter finds the sight haunting, and knowing she'll have no body if she doesn't heal, she begs for her to recover and not die yet. On the fourth day, Lorelei's vitals are low, and her eyes have permanently closed. Edwin keeps acting affectionately with her, giving her prayers, and two somber nurses enter the room. One of them grimly informs them that her conditions are worsening and that she does not have much time left, and Edwin blankly states that nothing can be done, unable to look away from his wife of many years. Winter brushes out her hair, unsettled by her father's inner turmoil. The other nurse concurs that nothing is able to be done, admitting that they came in to ask Edwin about something personal, and his co-worker reveals that they came in to discuss hospice arrangments. Winter senses something insidious, tensing, and Edwin repeats the information, finally taking his gaze off Lorelei. One of the nurses confirms this, stating that Lorelei is never going to recover, shocking Winter. The other nurse presses her father on whether or not Lorelei should be in hospice, but Edwin refuses to have her sent there, growling that as long as her heart is still beating, he's not sending her to her death. Winter nervously asks him what hospice is, barely able to comprehend what's going on, and the female nurse gently clarifies that people who are in hospice stop receiving medical treatment and live out their final days in peace. She realizes that, to her father, hospice is the admission that Lorelei will die - she is only not going there due to her father's bullheaded belief that she will survive. Winter than realizes that her mother's death is imminent, and at any given moment here in the room, she could die around her loved ones. Now aware that she is going to lose her mother and can't break the news to her father due to his mental instability, she notes that they'll have to wait for the time of her passing to come.

She wonders where the light has gone, thinking it has abandoned her. The fifth and final day in the ICU comes, and by now, all of Lorelei's machines, sans her heart monitor, have been disconnected. Lorelei herself is thin, dull, the blue in her eyes faded behind her eyelids. She gradually grows weaker and weaker, and at approxmiately 6:37, she takes her final breath and dies, her heart monitor going dead. Edwin screams, falling onto her now-dead body and begging for her or any miracle to revive her, but nothing changes, and Winter hugs him. She touches her mother's side, feeling the cold seep into her, and she accepts her death. Panicking, she realizes that she wasn't prepared for the impact of Lorelei's death at all, especially since it happened in a week, calling her and her father delusional for even thinking she'd survive when her body was already damaged from years of fighting lupus. Now partially orphaned, Winter breaks down alongside her father and lets go of her mother's wrist for the last time, seeking comfort from her only parent. Demanding how Lorelei is gone, she pleads for her to come back, not wanting to be alone with her father, and she wonders why she's denying it when death has claimed her mother - who, for years, loved her, protected her, sung to her, and guided her through life. Remembering her vow to live life to its fullest, Winter feels like she failed her mother, thinking about how time is precious since you never know when the dawn brings death. She and her father are powerless as a tarp is pulled over Lorelei's body, and remain powerless as they are given condolences, watching the body be wheeled out. They return home, coming back to a lifeless place. The next morning, Edwin sits idly, silenced, his eyes hazy and gray from grief, which Winter immediately senses in him and herself, almost making her throw her cereal against the wall. Knowing her mother would have never wanted her to skip school, she declines her father's offer for her to stay home and powers through her teachings, with no one detecting the turmoil blooming in her family and no one figuring out that she has lost her mother.

When the school day ends, Winter and her father travel to Harmony Hollow, the drive lumpier to Winter than ever before since the typical routine at synagogue, mostly involving her mother, is no more than a memory. For Lorelei's funeral, Edwin makes his daughter wear a veil to hide her semi-shaved head, and this time, she doesn't question it due to her grief. Beasley and Remi greet them, with Remi apologizing, murmuring that Lorelei was beautiful. Beasley promises that they won't suffer through this by themselves, offering their support, and Edwin thanks him. Soon, Edwin's family arrives at the funeral along with Lorelei's family; all are distraught. As Rabbi Kealer speaks, Lorelei's coffin is carried through the isles and propped open, showcasing her clean, neat body. Winter sees that the interior decorations are Pacific bleeding hearts, her mother's favorite flower, and her father sorrowfully murmurs that it's perfect. Realizing that he made all of the arrangements himself, Winter respects him more for such a hard task, and she internally thanks him for giving her mother the best funeral possible without her final will. When it is Edwin's turn to speak, Winter nudges her father up onto the podium for his eulogy, and he glances at his wife's body before beginning. His words are shaky, and he repeatedly trips over his words, making Winter note that losing Lorelei has screwed with his perception. By sentence six, he chokes out the eulogy in tears, expressing his love for Lorelei even when he disagreed with her, and remembering how she taught him to appreciate the best things in the world, from the fun things to the small things, and sharing it with their daughter. In her eulogy, Winter mentions that her mother's curiosity got her into trouble with her father, but she valued her when others didn't, taking a clear shot at Edwin, who looks up at her.

Winter continues reading her eulogy, which earns her the approval of her father, though Edwin becomes shocked when she rips off her veil- something that would typically anger him - and earns critical acclaim for her style. He stares at her, dumbfounded and drowned out by the praise, though when Winter finishes, he claps for her. When she requests for the musical ensemble to play *Ghost Spores*, and her father does not act shocked toward her decisions anymore. After Lorelei's coffin is buried, Winter and her father return home, expecting to see Lorelei somewhere and remembering that she is dead, the house bleak and empty without her. What Winter sees is black-and-white, and hearing her father retreat into his room, she thinks about everything she used to have her mother, all lost to time. As she holds her box in her room, her father comes in and calls her name. Seeing her distressed, Edwin sits by her and comments that the box is beautiful, and Winter sobs that it was the last gift her mother ever gave her. He replies that he knows, scooting closer to her, though she doesn't know how to go on without Lorelei - which means that she also doesn't know how to face her father and be herself at the same time. She wonders if anything will ever be the same, squeezing the box, and in an attempt to reassure his daughter, Edwin gives her a half-smile. This doesn't work, and Winter confesses to missing her mother, finding it unfair that she's not alive and feeling like something is wrong without her. Softening, her father agrees with her that it's unfair, missing Lorelei and noting that he'll have to adapt to being her sole remaining parent. At once, she wails, remembering her father's attempts to make her obey her religion and how she didn't expect to be stuck with him as her only guardian. Edwin hugs her, promising that he won't leave her, and Winter observes that he has been sleepless for over a week since Lorelei's hospitalization and death. He confides that he never expected to fall in love with Lorelei, but eventually, he knew that she was the one, loving her passion and talent and noting how beautiful her eyes were.

Lorelei had quite the personality as well, more of a peacemaker, but also unabashed, soft, proud, and nature-loving. Winter looks up at her father, dragging her heels across the bedframe as Edwin admits to her being a witness to his and Lorelei's clashes, but losing his wife has made him lose some of himself. His voice cracks, and he takes a sharp intake of breath; Winter sees that he feels the same way she does, and she hopes her mother is watching from the stars as she promised, wondering if she's up there right now. Her father affirms that she is and that she would be proud of her for her evolution and maturity. Agreeing, Winter stares at the box, suddenly realizing that they have no way to carry on Lorelei's legacy, and she becomes upset. Edwin prompts her on what's wrong, to which she tearfully admits that they don't have a method of carrying on what her mother left behind - the house doesn't even feel like a home without her, and it's haunting. Her father's face contorts with sympathy and pain, and he apologizes to her, confident they can find a way to honor Lorelei since she presented herself in many ways. Winter ponders on how they can honor her, ruling out objects, but recalling her interests, she gets an idea and decides to ask her father something. Edwin prompts her, and she begs him to carry on Lorelei's legacy, as she'd want them to continue cherishing what made them special. Flustered, he struggles to form a response, which Winter takes as him refusing. Dejected, she grips onto him tightly as if he is about to be killed in front of her, pleading for him to not turn her away - he's her only parent, and he needs to care for her - she needs him more than anyone in her life. Edwin is too stunned to respond, and she cries that Lorelei would want him to take the best step forward. They're both broken and trying to cope with losing the person they loved, but they can't stow away her legacy.

He acknowledges her words, and continuing her rant, Winter adds that she isn't asking him to become her mother and won't force him to bend over backwards to do that - she is only asking for him to pick up what she left behind. Taken aback, he apologizes, insisting he's trying his best. She hugs him tightly, urging him to start with the garden, taking pictures, and enjoying what it feels like to be alive, things he remembers, and with additional prompting from Winter, Edwin finally agrees to take up Lorelei's legacy and carry it on. He then scoots away from Winter, staring at the wall, and momentarily thinking he might have pushed her away for her synagogue outburst and showing something Jewish woman don't typically do (cutting hair short), she tenses. She calls out to him, making him turn toward her, and she apologizes for ripping her veil off, admitting that she thought her mother would have wanted her to do it. He demands why she's apologizing for that; he isn't angry, but just shocked, and he soothes her with a hug. Despite the warmth, Winter sobs, begging her for him to not leave her, and he pleads that he'd never do that and that he loves her. Unbeknownst to him, she is a lesbian, athiest, and doesn't believe in Yahweh, Abraham, or Moses - secrets and blatant rulebreaking that she has hidden from Edwin with lies. She grips him violently, unable to contain her feelings, and just as he demands why she'd believe he'd abandon her, Winter snaps that he hates it when she disobeys his morals. Aghast, he is left in near-total silence, and she tells him to stop playing dumb, mentioning the many things he's done to her, including his nonsensical scoldings, complaining, and silencing of her for her choices. She demands what he truly wanted to do with her, and gasping, he begs that he didn't mean it like that - he'd never want to stunt her growth, only keep her safe.

Winter retorts that he wasn't keeping her safe, and she confesses to not even being closely linked to her Jewish heritage, instead finding more solace with Varien. She asks him if he's going to push her away now that she's admitted to being different, and softening more, Edwin wipes his tears, placing the box next to him. He lets Winter rest on his body, and he stresses that she has things wrong - he wouldn't disown her for not following the Torah. He did twist it out of fear for her, as ever since her youth, she's come close to dying numerous times, and he couldn't stand the notion of losing her. He squeezes her, sobbing, but feeling too much pressure, Winter gets him to let go. While she feels like she's getting somewhere with him, he isn't on her level of thinking. Edwin questions if she has anything else she wants to tell him, and she thinks about how she only barely likes her Jewish side anymore. On the other hand, she doesn't enjoy her heritage, besmirched by her father and the strict teachings prohibiting what she loves. She wishes to create her own legacy, and while she still finds synagogue cool, she's found her place elsewhere and feels distant from the place, the magic from her youth long gone. Because she last went there for her mother's funeral, she wonders how she can even go back, and having accomplished everything at Harmony Hollow, Winter admits that she doesn't want to go to synagogue anymore. Her father stiffens in shock, and she fears that she's given him a valid reason to reject her. He asks if she doesn't want to go back, and Winter retorts that there's nothing there - it's not the same without her mother, who's funeral service was held there, and it hurts her.

Edwin points out that she has friends there, but Winter hisses that she did everything she needed to do in synagogue and showed everyone the side of her he wanted to conceal - she's struggling to see the value, and doesn't want to go back to a place she can't connect to or entertain like he can. Sighing, Edwin wraps her in a side-hug, admitting that she has bravery for her confessions and revealing that he felt the exact same way she did in his youth. His daughter raises an eyebrow, remember him previously alluding to this before, and he says that Lorelei didn't want him to tell her until she was older out of the belief that she would hold a grudge against him. Winter allows her father to begin, and he mentions that he and his siblings faced a strict life growing up, and it was so strict he had wanted to run away, much to her shock. Winter internally questions what happened in the years before her birth, and her father affirms that this is true; the sentiment was also shared with his siblings. Her grandmother was strict and punished her children for disobeying the Torah and Yahweh, frequently coming into conflict with Jodie and punishing her physically and verbally. On the other hand, Edwin and Barry both strived to be good children, and Lewis faced neglect, troubled by his mother's neglect of him. Over time, Anny's grip on the household worsened, and she forced her children to actively worship and study Judaism, or else they'd get yelled at. Edwin grew tired of this lifestyle and tried to complain, and Winter figures that she didn't listen to them, to which he responds that Anny warned him to stop being disrespectful. In his teenage years, he fell in love with a beautiful girl named Enid, surprising Winter, and he adds that his siblings loved Enid. However, his mother was not supportive due to Enid not being Jewish or close to God, and she threatened to disown Edwin from the family if he chose to date her.

For her sake, he kept relations with Enid platonic, and slowly began to realize that Anny was going too far - he hated being Jewish, longing for an escape. Winter realizes that she has more in common with her father than she initially thought, prompting him on what happened next, and he explains that he mostly cut all contact with his mother and moved out when he turned eighteen. He finally gained freedom to consult and worship Yahweh whenever he wanted, as did his siblings. Still longing to be a religious man, he pratices Judaism without punishment and met Lorelei not long after, though not fully abandoning his mother's teachings. Winter doesn't reply, moving closer to Edwin, and he relates to her concerns over feeling pressured. Since she's a child, she didn't deserve that kind of treatment from him, and while it can be hard for him to admit wrongdoing, he is sorry for being too harsh with her and will do anything to atone. Winter says that she understands, picking up his hand and relating to him over his childhood, and thanking him for listening to her. She then confesses that she was scared he would reject her, and her father blames himself, apologizing, hugging her, and kissing her on her forehead. He states that he excused his actions by claiming it was to protect her, but this was only the partial truth - he didn't want her to grow up with his childhood, and he was insecure, having almost lost her several times - instead of being gentle, he pushed his narrative and ended up hurting her with something she should have never experienced. Staring Winter directly in her eyes, Edwin takes back every scolding he gave her, declaring that she's beautiful and doesn't need religion to stand out. While he does want her to remember her religious values and not fully discard her heritage, he is her everything, and he needs her more than ever. Although he may screw up and judge, he will be here for the rest of her life, and they won't attend synagogue if she doesn't want to.

Winter beams, smiling and asking if he truly means this, to which he unevenly hugs her and proclaims that she's his daughter and the person he loves the most. If her purity was tainted, or if she was taken from him, he'd fail her as her father and never forgive himself - without Winter, he'd be lost. Elated that her father has chosen to atone and step up in his role as her sole parent, Winter feels warmth and adrenaline in her veins, certain she will never be alone instead of feeling incomplete without her father. Together, the two share their will to be alive, breathe, and connect the dots, not doing anything without each other. They stick by each other, and for the next few months, heal from Lorelei's death. Winter notes that there is a galaxy for them to explore and that the love of a father should never be undervalued. She and her father spend hours consuming milkshakes at Steak N' Shake, watch movies at the AMC theater until they fall asleep or eat the entire popcorn bag (sometimes throwing popcorn at each other), and play at the center court of the mall and aggrivate the mall cops. They also stargaze in open fields. Winter's mind eases from the grief and regret felt by her mother's death, teaching herself that life goes on and that healing is possible. Outside, she plays with her father and is allowed to climb up trees, and when fall transitions into winter, they play in the snow together. Observing that her father is the happiest he's ever been, Winter welcomes him to the feeling of being alive, and soon, her father finds himself doing things he'd never thought of doing before. One day, at the mall, he and his daughter stop in front of Hot Topic, harmlessly asking if she wants to go in. Winter, astonished that he's let go of his hate for the store, tests the waters and is able to buy several Varien posters, and she fills with pride at his willingness to grow and change.

Edwin drives her around Pineshadow, where they explore new areas, and he carries on Lorelei's tradition of taking photos and interacting with nature, even with it biting back at him and Winter. Loving her freedom, she asks her mother if she's seeing this. Both have their personalities blossom, with Winter loving her father's newfound sense of fun and his childish side as he chases her around the park, plays board games, and spends too much time with her at Barnes & Noble. They go to Best Buy, having fun watching the HD TVs and examining other objects in the store, also venturing to Dick's Sporting Goods to play the golf simulator and run around on the track and the fitness equipment, irritating many in the store. They make pillow forts and watch movies with hot chocolate; Winter's father tells her of Anny's shenanigans in his youth and shares with her memories of her mother. Thinking about Lorelei now is less painful, but even with her absence, Winter and her father stick together and don't let death part them. Nights pass where the two head out to stargaze, and Edwin guides Winter to the constellations, thinking of the animal deities and hoping that her mother is watching her from above, saying that she loves her more than ever. She and her father run to Barnes & Noble for coffee and relax by the fountain, hearing the leaves rustling and children playing. At the same time, Edwin carries on Lorelei's legacy, snapping many pictures of their memories, even the melancholy ones, such as when Winter visits her mother's grave and puts a Pacific bleeding heart by it. Soon, the two encounter a problem - the kitchen wire is overflowing with photos - and to solve this, they split minor memories and major memories, putting the minor ones in an unused Lorelei scrapbook and major ones in Winter's box.

Winter makes the photos sacred and exclusive to her, vowing to have no one else touch them. The memories keep piling up, making her happy, as she knows they're fulfilling their wishes as well as her late mother's wishes. One evening, her father decides to take her to a place she's never visited before, and she notes that ever since her mother died, the planned spring trip to Heartbeat Point had been postponed. Therefore, they will spend it somewhere else. Winter asks where they're going, but her father doesn't give a name, only telling her that she'll see. The sun sets, and fifteen minutes later, they arrive at a body of water known as Rye Lake, and the place rings a bell to Winter. They sit down at the edge of the lakeshore, and Edwin admits that this place is very special to him, asking his daughter if she wants to know why. She agrees, wanting to know why she seems so familiar with the lake, and her father reveals that he went on his first date with Lorelei here. He also fished here with Winter's grandfather and caught a sunfish. Winter remembers her parents discussing the first date in the hospital, noting her mother stating that it was a time to be alive, and she agrees with her, finding the lake exceptional. She relaxes with her father, relieved that they've come together and progressed away from their strained, bullheaded relationship. A stranger on a fishing trip compliments the two, and they thank him. Winter tells her father to get the Polaroid, and he convinces the stranger to take a picture of them sitting by Rye Lake, which gets tucked into Winter's box. Winter thinks about how death brought her and her father together, believing they are one and meant to be forever. Later, spring comes, and Winter's father does a remarkable job at keeping the garden and bleeding hearts alive.

Winter is shocked when her father buys Varien's second album, *My Prayers Have Become Ghosts*, the day of its release, knowing the old him would have been furious because of the devil imagery on the cover. While he knows more about Varien, Winter still omits the fact that the musician is transgender for her own safety. She discovers her father with a brown handle on the sofa, which she questions, and he reveals that it's a pocket knife. Winter, confused, watches as he taps the button that makes a sharp silver blade pop out, explaining that Saul gave him the knife so he had a viable way of protecting her - should anyone harm her, the knife is going in their throat. Winter is nervous thinking about the weapon, but chides herself for this, believing her father wouldn't turn against her (this doesn't age well). She thanks him, opening the screen to her first phone, recently bought by her father due to her being at the appropriate age for one. While she has some restrictions, she is mostly allowed to roam through the internet as she pleases. She admires more pictures of Varien with short hair, wishing to be in her place, and she yearns to cut her hair again. One afternoon, when Edwin is out of the house, Winter heads into the bathroom and notices that her shaved side has grown back, requiring a trim. However, not wanting to risk angering her father by asking to cut it, and recalling her mother's advice, Winter opts to cut her hair herself. She grabs a photo of Varien from her bedroom, pinning it to the mirror and getting the supplies necessary. Knowing what she wants - not to copy Varien, but have a gender-neutral style similar to her - Winter gets to work and cuts, shaves, and trims her hair for over thirty minutes. Two loose strands hang over her head, and she ties the loose back ends of her hair together with a faded red tie. Winter likes her new appearance, preparing to finish up, but unbeknownst to her, her father has returned home.

He whistles, approaching the bathroom and opening the door to see his daughter. Startled, she whips around and holds the scissors in her right hand. He asks her what she's doing, and when she drops her arms to reveal her short haircut, he gasps, aghast that she's done this for a second time. He demands what she's done, and telling herself that he's just shocked and not outraged, Winter shields herself protectively, hoping he has not seen the photograph of Varien. Edwin questions why she's done this, not understanding her reasoning, and noting that he is unaware of her gender-neutrality, she partially lies that she wanted to honor her mother for previously cutting her hair. She adds that she's sorry and only wanted her hair short. Winter shuts her eyes, preparing to be rejected for not following typical Jewish standards, but instead, her father embraces her warmly. He confides that while he may not always understand her decisions, he can't force her to change when she doesn't want to, comparing her to her mother and asserting that her hairstyle was blessed by Yahweh before - so he can make this a worthwhile memory before. With that, Winter goes back to work, and her father takes a picture of her new hair, a memory that ends up going into her box. Closing out the chapter, Winter reiterates the grim aspects of death and how it's never easy to recover from. She still misses her mother to this day, believing she was watching over her and her father and wishing she could spend her whole life with yer, yet knowing she can't change her past and only her future. She notes that time can't be wasted, and through the struggles after her mother's death, she and her father got back up on their feet. Winter learned to adapt to having one parent, formerly believing her father was her everything and remembering all they did together, mentioning his change - without her, he'd be lost.

#### *Soulmates*

"*However, love is a beautiful, blossoming thing, one of the finest facets the earth has to offer... I was very lucky to have met Lorelei, and you should be very lucky to have met your crush. What I'll tell you is this:* don't *jump the gun and ask him out when you're uncomfortable and only at the first base. A messy romantic moment can have its pros, but also its cons.*"
—Edwin giving Winter love advice

Edwin does a remarkable job at tending to Lorelei's garden and bleeding hearts, though he is not as friendly with the bees in contrast to her. Winter knows his deeds would have made her proud, asking in the present day for her mother to smite him. When Winter wishes to get away from Lars, she explains his actions to her father in great detail. Edwin tells her that Lars is a type of boy he knows very well, and judging from what she has said, he definitely has a crush on her. Winter replies that she doesn't share his feelings and is not her type, omitting her preference for girls and growing disgusted at the thought of Lars liking her romantically. Her father remarks that Lars is still developing while she is further ahead in her development. For now, she should ignore what he says, but if his compliments become degrading or too much, she should talk with her teacher - this is the best advice he can provide at the moment. Taking his advice, Winter nods, and things become more peaceful between her and Lars. On a sunny day, Edwin and Winter relax at Pinelake Park when Lars shows up and chases Winter around the playground. Edwin does not intervene, as the chase is not dangerous, and he does not intend on scaring Lars with the pocket knife. Shortly after meeting another girl, she and Winter both point out their oversized shirts bought for them by their respective parents. Winter is soon called out of the hole by Edwin, who says that they need to head home, and she emerges with the girl, named Daniela. He questions who the latter is, and Winter introduces her, explaining that they met up when she was running from Lars.

She inquires if he has left, which he confirms. He focuses on Daniela, who personally introduces herself and comments that Winter's neat, noting that they get along well. Pleased, Edwin introduces himself, shaking her hand and flustering her. He and Winter then depart. A few days later, Winter notes that her father would side-eye her for her behavior around Daniela and that he is unable to see the chemistry they have together. Later, Edwin meets Daniela's mother, Rex. Daniela and Winter's hangouts intensify, and they sometimes nap until Edwin picks her up. Daniela also begs him to share some of the garden crops, and he is shocked by her request for Passover food, going over culinary recipes in his head. She and Winter have pancake-eating competitions, and the latter notes that her father would likely tell her she is crazy. In one of their secret meetings, Winter reveals to Daniela that she got her necklace at Hot Topic without her father knowing, and in subsequent meetings, they tell each other of the funny pranks pulled on their parents. Winter calls Daniela her closest link besides her father. When summer arrives, Edwin and Rex frequently take their daughters to Häagen-Dazs. Winter and Daniela soon agree to have their first sleepover together, and feeling sweat at the base of her neck thinking about it, Winter wonders if her father turned the thermostat up too high. Both Edwin and Winter spend the hours preparing the house for the sleepover. Daniela arrives later on, and in her room, Winter tells her that her father used to complain about her being into interests opposite to her gender. Edwin orders pizza, serving them it as dinner and telling them that he'll be in the living room watching *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia*. Winter teases him, knowing he wants to see Danny DeVito curse someone out over the phone, and embarrassed, he takes his leave.

While Daniela is out of the bedroom to change into her PJs, Winter grabs her box, which holds the memories sacred to her and her father, opening it to pull out the Christmas photo of her and her parents. After gaining enough strength, Winter shows her the photo. Upon the girls getting settled for the night, Edwin wishes the girls a good night and closes the door. The next morning, Winter smells the breakfast her father is making and informs Daniela that she doesn't want to miss it, but when she tries to sleep in, she tickles her awake. They then head down and have Edwin's strawberry pancakes, with Winter sensing change on the horizon. On another visit to Häagen-Dazs, Daniela accidentally swears, and knowing her father is in line for ice cream, Winter chastises her. They soon meet at the park besides her father's duvet. One afternoon, Edwin gets a phone call and reveals to Winter that Daniela wants to invite her on an immersive art experience. Winter is elated at the thought of it, instantly agreeing, and her father informs her that Rex will pick her up, as he is busy. Although Winter knows he's only sending emails and watching *It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia*, she doesn't question him. When Winter is conflicted over wanting to admit to Daniela that she likes her, she decides to risk asking for her father's advice, which also forces her to lie about having a crush on a man. She approaches him, and he asks what's up, to which she reveals that she has a crush. Delighted, her father leans back on the countertop, cheering that this is great news. Winter asks for his advice, mentioning that her crush is defiant, sassy, and doesn't like nonsense. She wants to ask "him" out formally soon, but she doesn't know if "he" shares her feelings. She feels disgusted hiding Daniela's identity from her father, but pleased, Edwin's eyes go vacant.

His daughter, noticing, remembers that he told her that he wasn't going to remarry, as no one could ever replace Lorelei, which she had agreed with. His eyes fill with life again, ad he tells Winter that love is complicated and can sway her into doing bad. She gulps, recalling the commandment in the Torah that prohibits homosexuality, worrying that he has figured out that she is a lesbian. Instead, she is proven wrong, and Edwin says that love is a beautiful, fine thing - he was lucky to meet Lorelei, and Winter should be lucky to have met hers. He advises her to not ask her crush out too early, or she might make things messy, which comes with its cons. She nods, and giving her more advice, her father recommends to keep her feelings calm and at bay; she should listen to her heart, and in time, she'll have a "boyfriend" when she is wiser and older. Edwin becomes lost in thought, and Winter thanks him. Later, sitting on the edge of the playground with Daniela, Winter recalls a conversation where she asks her father if she can venture into the Piney Woods, but he tells her that she can't until she's thirteen. Winter questions why, pointing out that she's on social media, but Edwin retorts that she isn't going there without supervision - it's a labyrinth and dangerous - and she could face even more dangers at night. He inquires if she understands, and she confirms, obeying his order to not go in. Satisfied, he promises to reconsider his views when she turns thirteen. Wanting to show her the woods herself, Daniela drags her in the direction of them, but Winter hesitates, remembering her father's instruction. Baffled, Daniela asks why she's not moving, and Winter confesses that her father doesn't want her to go into the woods, to which she is prompted on why.

She sheepishly explains that he believes they they are a threat to her - he wishes for her to not explore the Piney Woods until she is older, and she is respecting his wishes to not disobey him. Staring at the woods, Winter is uncertain who's version of the woods is more accurate. Daniela, mischievously smirking, urges her to disobey her father, making her friend open her mouth to protest. However, Daniela quashes her, saying that he's just being overprotective of her. While she doesn't know the extent of their relationship, her father shouldn't be restraining her from what she wants to do, even if he doesn't want her getting hurt. Winter notes that she trusts Edwin and Daniela with her life, but putting more faith in her best friend, she lets her walls come down and, noting that she has longed to stray away from her father's influence for years, agrees to go into the woods. Upon seeing a bleeding heart, Winter remembers her mother's will to keep her father from restraining her, and she dismisses her father's beliefs about the Piney Woods entirely, expressing her new viewpoint to Daniela. She doesn't care if Edwin rages at her for going into the woods, feeling limitless with her best friend. On a late evening, her father gets a phone call from Rex, revealing that Daniela wants to have another sleepover. After hanging up, he relaxes, noting that Daniela just can't stay away from their house, and Winter agrees, stoked thinking about another sleepover with her friend, whom she calls precious. She pulls back on the deep thoughts, but blames Daniela for making her blush instead of her father. An hour later, Daniela arrives and flattens Winter on the ground with a hug, knocking the wind out of from under her. Edwin says that she nearly flatterned Winter, helping both girls up.

The girls later hide under his duvet to share the good word and stories. When Daniela takes a photo of Winter outside, she instructs her to take it back in and show her father, and she obliges. Later, Edwin calls the girls back inside.

#### *Betrayal of Blood*

"*Your insight's made me feel more relieved... and I* need *to go lay down, take some painkillers, and get back online. But Winterlyn, I'm going to ask something of you.* Never *forget who you are inside, down to your roots and your heritage. I understand your issues and lack of connection, but it's stil a* part *of you and your influence. Others should not tempt you into trudging a muddled path and straying from the rest of Judaism's tenants.*"
—Edwin reminding Winter to stay true to her heritage

Before continuing the story, Winter notes that she had a loving father. Daniela and Winter get into hijinks that ruffle their parents' feathers. Under her father's duvet, the girls discuss the impending fifth grade year, with Winter keeping her voice low so Edwin is not alerted of her choice of language. He does not overhear the two, however. When Winter discusses her and Daniela coming out as lovers to their parents, both are divided in half. With Winter's permission, Daniela reveals their relationship to Rex, who gives them her blessing and buys a cake for the two in celebration, believing Winter to be everything. On the other hand, Winter absolutely refuses to tell her father that she and Daniela are dating, firm in her belief that he is still bound to Judaism even with his change and efforts to become a better parent. While Edwin isn't the fiery, strict man from her youth, he is religious, and although Jewish communities have relatively no homophobia, Winter is concerned that her father won't accept her for being a lesbian. He isn't a fan of anything contradicting the Torah, though has willingly bent his rules for her sake. She wishes to tell him of everything she and Daniela have accomplished, but wanting to avoid taking a hefty risk, Winter chooses to lay low. With her decision, Edwin is fully unaware that the two are dating, seeing them as good friends. Daniela is surprised when her girlfriend informs her of her choice, questioning if she really doesn't want to tell her father, and deflating, Winter mutters that it's complicated.

As she gets hugged, she shares her wish to come out to her father, hoping she isn't disappointing Daniela, who prompts her on why things are complicated. Winter feels a stinging sensation from her touch, knowing she hasn't fully explained her situation, and she asks Daniela if she recalls her father being hard on her because of religion. She confirms this, and her girlfriend admits that she wants to tell him, but can't, fearing she will be rejected - the Torah specficially bans homosexual relationships. Shocked, she gasps, and Winter hugs her tightly, unable to imagine her father tearing them apart. Daniela inquires if their love is forbidden, making her panic, and refusing to have their relationship end like every forbidden one, Winter says that she's uncertain; she still doesn't listen to the Torah nonetheless. Daniela notes that she never has, to which she replies that it hindered her, and her girlfriend encourages her to continue breaking the norm. Winter nods, vowing to keep loving her after all they've done together despite not knowing what her future holds. She pauses, conflicted over telling her father the truth with the fact that he's still strict and uncertain as to how Daniela will react now that she can't fully share her pride in her relationship. Feeling useless for dimming her excitement, Winter apologizes, requesting time to think over her decision. Holding her cheek, Daniela reassures her and embraces her, promising to give her all the time she needs and only wanting to spend her time with her, the apple of her eye. Winter finishes with a "cherry to my pie," giggling on the floor with her, and the rest of her worries vanish. Daniela uses her as a pillow, her legs tangled with hers, and her girlfriend teases her for it. She responds that she could never resist the diamonds in her eyes, flustering her with her flirting. Suddenly, hearing her father's footsteps, Winter sits up and warns Daniela, and they dive onto the bed. Luckily for them, they go unnoticed, and Daniela notes that this was a close call.

To protect them from Edwin, Winter pulls the covers over them. After school gets out, Winter and Daniela play in the leafpiles, watched closely by their parents. Edwin has gotten familiar with Rex and is noted to adore Daniela. The girls get up in winter fun, making s'mores (but not re-enacting the *Lady and the Tramp* spaghetti scene because of Edwin). One day, when Edwin is out of the house, Daniela makes Winter watch *Joshua and the Promised Land*, and Winter is put into so much hysterics by the movie that she demands she and her girlfriend watch more bootleg movies when their parents aren't around. In public, they hold hands, not concerning Winter's father, who still believes they are good friends. Feeling safer with Daniela, Winter believes that her girlfriend will protect her from her father if necessary. When Winter turns eleven, she recalls many events in her life, including her battles with Edwin. Daniela arrives at her house to celebrate her birthday with a sleepover, coming with an expensive gift, and while making Winter's birthday cake in the kitchen, Edwin encourages Winter to have her "friend" flatter her. Later, Winter mentions that she still hasn't told she still hasn't confessed that she is a lesbian and has a girlfriend to her father, not having enough conviction to bring herself to do it. She wonders if she can really trust her father, but doesn't get the time needed to dwell on these issues, as pandemonium proceeds to take over the house. One day, as she finishes up *Alice in Wonderland*, her father swears in his bedroom. This greatly alarms Winter, for his behavior is unusual and indicates that something is horribly wrong. Nervously, she makes it to the bedroom and discovers that he is enraged, fists clenched tightly. She prompts him on what's going on in an attempt to reduce the tension, and Edwin growls that he got laid off from his job and hasn't gotten his severance pay.

Winter is shocked and terrified, remembering her father's former job for a software company that paid him well, and with his severance, they have no viable way of making income. Frantically, Edwin reveals that he had everything right yet got dumped anyway, fretting over breaking his promise to Winter's dead mother. His pacing worsens, not easing Winter's panic, but she tries to be optimistic and expresses her confidence that he won't break the promise and find a new job. Her father blazes her, retorting that it isn't easy to find a new job, and petrified, she fears he'll pull his pocket knife on her. She begs for him to calm down, asserting that she's merely trying to be hopeful, and relaxing, Edwin sits down on the bed. He apologizes, knowing that he shouldn't have yelled at her even with his stress, and she reminds him that Lorelei would have wanted him to find employment again. He agrees, noting her similar optimism to her mother and vowing to not let her down. Hugging her, Edwin kisses her and tells her to get a snack and finish *Alice in Wonderland* while he searches for job openings, only for Winter to break the news to him that the movie is over and the TV is off. Thinking back on his atypical behavior, Winter hopes that her father doesn't act like that toward her, and she becomes more cognizant of her burning secrets. In the days following, Edwin worsens, and he snaps and mutters at every little thing while running chores to earn money. Winter fears her father will go feral on her if he doesn't find a job soon, knowing he needs one to substain them and the house, and at night, she struggles to sleep. Overwhelmed by fear, she sweats as she thinks possible outcomes, such as moving in with Saul and being evicted.

Daniela is confident she won't be forced out of her home, and comforting her girlfriend, she affirms that her father will get a job and that she must remain optimistic - there will be challenges, but a parent's love can't be underestimated. Winter hopes so, relying on her optimism, but by the springtime, the situation hasn't improved at all. Winter fails to sleep repeatedly due to her thinking of scenarios, and her father, also struggling to sleep, is worn out from his efforts to search for a job. He begins to forget to tend to the garden, leaving the job up to Winter to keep what her mother left behind thriving. She worries about her father neglecting her and breaking his oath to Lorelei, noting that they barely have money to pay bills and taxes. Edwin rushes out to perform small jobs, not acknowledging his daughter when he returns. Ultimately, Winter is accidentally neglected, and Daniela provides her with comfort. Winter sees the writing on the wall, knowing that by next month, they will be evicted if Edwin doesn't find employment - and forced to shelter on the street or with Saul - a fate she can't fathom. She refuses to move away, not wanting to lose Daniela, and with her father's erratic behavior, she feels unsafe in her own home. Winter longs for an escape from the pressure, unable to immerse herself in Varien's music because of her constant worries about her future and her father. Seeing his facial features curved in constant anger, she feels scared that one wrong move will dismantle the life she's known for years. Daniela also grows worried, her words backfiring on her, and Winter breaks down in her arms frequently. She questions how she can leave Pineshadow, her home and links to her father, family, and girlfriend, behind. Daniela soothes her and gives her eskimo kisses, pledging her loyalty and promising to protect her; as the situation escalates, she takes Winter to the Piney Woods, which acts as a safe space for her, without Edwin knowing. With Daniela, she relaxes considerably, but does not think of a major unintended consequence.

One afternoon, Winter takes a walk through the woods with her girlfriend, and when she arrives back at home, her father stares at the blank TV. He demands where she's been, to which she replies that she needed air, making her way to the kitchen to grab a glass of water. She notices Edwin's nosebridge wrinkle, and just as she reaches the fridge, he asks why she smells like a pine tree. Winter freezes in shock, discovering her father staring at her irritably, and she lies that she walked near a pine tree. However, he isn't fooled by the fib and questions if she went into the Piney Woods, startling her, and she insists that she just needed air. Edwin sternly prompts her again, reminding her that she isn't supposed to be in the woods for her safety, and gasping, Winter fails to recognize the father she typically knows. Unable to escape, and having her father's eyes on her, she reluctantly admits that she was in the Piney Woods - but she was with Daniela, and the woods are safer than he thinks they are. Snarling, Edwin demands why she disobeyed him, as she is not supposed to be in there, and from her admission, this clearly wasn't the first time. Shaking her head and screeching, Winter pleads that Daniela showed her the woods and that she's been curious about it since her youth. She reveals that she finds it to be a home, calling the woods charming, which shocks her father. Fuming, he asks her about what he told her in regards to rules, backing her in the direction of her room. On the verge of a panic attack, Winter fears that she'll be attacked with the pocket knife. She gulps, begging that she isn't hurt and showing her unscathed arms and face, but the evidence isn't enough to sway Edwin. He hisses that regardless of the evidence, she isn't allowed in the Piney Woods; it is unsafe for children like her.

Winter fires back, growling that his accusations are baseless - he doesn't know what it's like to be in there - and she doesn't understand why he's only blaming her, but not Daniela for convincing her to explore the woods. Either way, she's not letting him take away a personal freedom of hers. Winter pauses, noting that her temper has evenly matched her own father, who is stunned. Noting her usage of Daniela's vocabulary, she vows to defend the Piney Woods, but she lacks the strength to properly counter Edwin. He says that he doesn't like the notion that Daniela led her into the woods, thinking of her as a good person, but wondering what was going through her head. Irate, Winter roars that he better not think of harassing her, causing him to leap at her. She shuts her eyes, bracing for her impact, but to her surprise, nothing happens. She finds herself halfway into her bedroom, her father before her, trembling and embarrassed. Winter senses his shame in almost borderline attacking her for chasing her heart alongside her "friend," staring at him and seeing that he is just as exhausted as her, having forgotten to take care of himself amidst their crisis. He stutters, making his way into Winter's room and sitting on her bed, and joining him, Winter prompts him into speaking. Edwin chokes out an apology, rubbing his tearless eyes, and his daughter expresses sympathy for him, understanding that he never intended to become so aggressive with her. Relaxing, he states that he shouldn't have snapped at her, knowing he can't control her when she's always been outspoken, just like her mother. Winter asserts that she knows this, telling him not to do anything to Daniela based on her own actions. He promises that he won't, not wanting to disrupt their chemistry and insert himself in something that doesn't concern him. She nods, ensuring that he doesn't attempt anything else, especially harming Daniela.

She asks him if he knew she'd kill herself for Daniela, leaving him incredulous, still unaware of the two's romantic link. He remarks that he knows, somberly adding that he'll never have the connection again, only making Winter feel more sympathetic for him. She knows he's exhausted and fears failure already, but her relationship with Daniela has made him feel melancholy. She questions if he finds their "friendship" special (concealing the truth), and he confesses how much he holds Daniela in a high regard, so much so that to Edwin, she is like a second daughter. Surprised, Winter's hope of being able to tell him of their relationship resurfaces, but she swallows it back down, too paranoid of the outcome. She inquires if he adores Daniela, which he confirms, calling her extraordinary and stating that he'll never figure out their chemistry, but some secrets are best kept between friends. Relieved her father is not getting into her business, Winter agrees, and Edwin then yawns. He admits to wanting to say something else in terms of the financial situation, and although she is slightly disappointed, Winter prompts him. He says that he regrets not telling her sooner, but he's found it hard to - he fears they'll lose the entire house if he doesn't get a job. She lays her head on his shoulder in a show of sympathy, sharing his thoughts. Edwin confides that he feels horrified that he'll break his promise to her mother and make them lose everything. Winter, aghast, realizes that they could end up starving, asking if he believes they'll get evicted. He shakes his head, not denying that they could get evicted and apologizing for not being the father she needs. Winter reminds him that he's being honest, urging him to try and quoting Jodie, giving the two a small laugh.

Pulling Winter close to him, Edwin states that he must admit a final thing to her, and she encourages him to speak. Squeezing her into his body, her father remarks that she's growing up fast, tears formulating in his eyes. He cries that he doesn't want to lose her; nothing matters more than her, but he's worried that someone like Daniela will lead her away from him, maliciously or not. Although his last sentence is a red flag, Winter ignores it, knowing that she'd never leave her father on his own. She promises to not leave him behind at any point even if she's on an adventure with Daniela - plus, she can fight and shares his temper. He supposes she's right, but Winter urges him not to worry and instead focus on finding a new job, understanding that the world is a dark place. Now sharing her point of view, Edwin finishes that he'll discover employment, wiping away his tears. He thanks Winter, appreciating her creativity in communicating even when it doesn't make sense to him. She teases him for her tomboy attitude, and he replies that he's seen more than just that, ruffling her hair. He becomes solemn, confusing his daughter, and he says that with her insight, he'll take some painkillers and continue hunting for a job. However, he wants her to remember her roots and connection to her heritage despite her prior issues, as well as not let others lead her astray. Winter is irritated by his words, wondering why her father is so invested in keeping her close, and a shiver runs down her back. She questions why Edwin would believe such a thing given that they work through their flaws together - he's the person who comforted her through her mother's death and helped her put the pieces back together. Remembering her father's possessiveness from before, Winter feels her heart ache, and she ponders about what she's trying to be. She also wonders who her father is trying to be, uncertain that he'll ever accept her for her secrets. Eventually, in late spring, Edwin finds a new job as a cashier at the local CVS, which pays the family will.

With the tensions resolved, both finally gain much-needed sleep and stop worrying about the future, and Winter doesn't go to the Piney Woods as much for an escape. While her father is still partially empty and strict, he is still the same person. She and Daniela snuggle in the Piney Woods, away from the sight of Edwin, who remains completely oblivious to their love. The girls don't care about their forbidden love, and Winter knows that they're fine as long as her father doesn't know that they're queer and dating. With Daniela by her side, Winter stops worrying about her father. For the Fourth of July, despite his reservations about fireworks sounding too much like gunshots, Edwin takes Winter and Daniela to see fireworks at Old Town Pineshadow and allows them to sit on top of the car. They share a Bomb Pop with his back turned. Later, in celebration of their anniversary, Winter and Daniela lay together outside the house until Edwin calls them back in. In late August, it's Winter and Daniela's first morning at Pineshadow Middle School, and Winter feels nervous as she's dropped off by her father, who tells her that she'll adapt just fine and that he loves her. Winter promises that she'll be fine, knowing Daniela will be here any minute, and she senses the gazes of students baffled by the presence of her father. He then drives off. Upon the end of the day, Edwin picks Winter up and takes her home. At home, Winter collapses on the sofa, and Edwin teases her, mentioning that he was going to get her something at Starbucks. She protests that it's Monday, but he commits to getting them both something nonetheless, and she doesn't bother complaining when he leaves and returns with a cookie and tea. He subsequently makes Winter her school lunches.

When Winter shuts someone up, she tells Daniela to thank her father for giving her his anger. Soon, Daniela becomes clingy with Winter outside school until her father picks her up. Upon dragging Winter into a bathroom stall, Daniela inquires if she's told her father about them being together yet. Appalled and astonished that she'd even ask that question, Winter tenses, knowing she can't bring herself to come out to Edwin. She hates remembering that she hasn't been honest, fearing he won't view her the same way he does now if she admits everything - and now is not the right time. She demands why she'd ask her this, and Daniela insists that she was only curious. Unable to relax, Winter wonders why she's getting invested in her own business, sharply telling her that she'll come out to her father when she finds the right time. Before Daniela can reply, the bell rings, and the girls rush back to the cafeteria to grab their lunches. Throughout the rest of the day, Winter remains confused, not sure what is going on with her girlfriend. Running outside of school, she accidentally slams into her, but saves her from falling to the concrete in time. Upon grabbing Daniela, Winter notices that she's been upset and apologizes, admitting that she didn't believe she'd upset her. Her flame then apologizes herself for being brazen, confiding that she just wanted her father to see their chemistry, and she realizes that Daniela only wanted the best for her. Telling herself that nothing's wrong, Winter asserts that she'll tell her father about them in due time, reminding her that he was a conservative and could still be one. Daniela doubts that, but she points out that he put her through hell, requesting more time. She grants her that, hugging her and heading off to help her mother prepare for a business meeting.

A little later, Edwin takes the girls to the park, and Winter, growing hungry, figures she can leave Daniela alone for a minute to get a snack. She approaches her father, who asks her if it's going great, which she confirms. She asks for a snack, and Edwin gives her a fruit bar, telling her that he loves her. However, hearing Daniela scream, she shoves the bar back into his hands and runs off. After saving her, they snuggle away from Edwin's eyes once more. November arrives, and Winter notes that as she and her father are Jewish, they don't celebrate Thanksgiving. When discussing break ideas with Winter, Daniela suggests that she could come out to her father. Embarrassed, she goes quiet, and Winter tenses, eyebrows creasing. Feeling a sour taste in her mouth and sheer annoyance that Daniela would propose this question for a second time, she knows she isn't ready to admit everything to her father at all, remembering his suspicious behavior from a while back. She momentarily fears that he's be watching them, but reluctantly shaking the thought, she reaffirms that she's not coming out yet. Daniela nervously hugs her on the waistline, and giving her a pat on the shoulder, she adds that she will speak her mind when she is ready and finds the right time. She walks off to her father's car, regretting how harsh she came off as. A few days later, at lunch, Daniela hauls Winter into the bathroom, making her hackles stand on end. Hiding her agitation, she again demands what's going on, and dragging her shoe on the floor, Daniela admits that she wanted to speak to her about coming out to Edwin. This time, Winter doesn't hold back her feelings and expresses her irritation, making her girlfriend flinch. She ponders about why this talking point hasn't been dropped, knowing she's been concealing something, and reducing her tone, she questions if Daniela finds fault in her not being able to come out to her father. Daniela shakes her head, and with prompting, she finally confesses that she should get her secret off her chest, as it's not healthy to keep them in.

Winter is now borderline angry given that she has successfully hid her secrets from her father for years, deceived him by pretending to read to still read the Torah, and is an expert liar, and she retorts that she is fine. They can keep their own secrets, but they must be patient with each other - she can't take her chances prematurely when her father has been strict and demanding. Uncomfortably, Daniela apologizes for bringing the subject up, about to head out of the bathroom, but Winter pulls her back by the wrist. She says that while she doesn't agree with her all of the time, she still loves her; she's not willing to come out yet, but when she does, she'll be there. Daniela promises to be beside her, hugging her, and the girls return to their lunch. With the disagreement at an end, Winter looks forward to break, not knowing that the sleepover night will be the last normal night of her whole life and will unfurl a web of lies. As soon as she heads home on Friday, Winter informs her father of Daniela's plans to sleep over, and he asks if she'll want pizza, which she confirms. He chooses to call Pizza Hut, questioning if she wants the breadsticks, and she voices her approval. As Winter and Daniela tackle each other in the bedroom, Edwin knocks on the door, telling them that pizza is coming in fifteen minutes, and they break apart, acknowledging the message. They soon watch the 2010 version of *Alice in Wonderland*, and soon, her father joins them. He gives them several glances before focusing on his marriage ring, and everything is noted to be peaceful, the television on late night programming and currently on an ad break. Winter leans up against Daniela, sharing nuzzles with her and preparing to fall asleep by her side. Snorting at a chewing gum jingle, Edwin thinks back on his marriage and how his deceased wife would adore a night like this. The moment is the last peace Winter will ever know in her life.

Just as she feels herself getting sleepy, Daniela gets up, turns to her father, and reveals that she has a secret she's been wanting to tell him. Feeling like she got clubbed, Winter rises to her feet, aghast. Her father encourages her to go on, and nervously, she realizes that Daniela has left her vulnerable - effectively betraying her. Facing her, she whispers to her confident girlfriend that she's not ready to do this, silently begging her to admit this is all a foul joke. She denies this is happening, butterflies tearing into her stomach. Daniela doesn't relent, citing that her father loves her and is bound to accept her secret. This does nothing to calm her girlfriend, and Edwin stares at her, demanding her answer. Winter feels like throwing up her whole skeleton, never wanting things to go this way and feeling humiliated and oppressed. Defeated, she scrunches up her eyes and reluctantly admits that she is a lesbian to her father, in addition to mentioning that Daniela is actually her girlfriend. Silence fills the living room of the McCormick household, and her father is shocked while Daniela smiles, believing she's done a favor. Winter fills with despair, so unsettled by the quiet that she can hear her own frantic heartbeat. Then, her father steps up to her, and she meets his fiery eyes. He demands if this is true, making his daughter extremely uncomfortable with his negative tone. Facing the ground, she feels pinned by his and Daniela's stares, and taking her morality down with her, she confirms that it's true - she loves Daniela. In that moment, she realizes that she's made a horrible mistake. Outraged, her father growls and slaps her cheek violently, drawing blood from the inside of her mouth, and Daniela observes, ultimately coming to never help her girlfriend at any point. Edwin exclaims that she's a heathen, snarling at her and trapping him with his eyes alone.

He accuses Winter of going against her morals, running off with a girl, and lying that she was a friend. Winter shakes her head, knowing she only followed her heart, and she begs that he doesn't understand. However, her father recites how in Judaism, she is not meant to fall for the same gender and should be with a man - the fact that she committed sin when raised in the graces of Yahweh makes her a traitor to her family. Blinking back tears, Winter notes that her worst fears have become true, and becoming enraged at Daniela's lack of intervening in the situation, she challenges her father despite having no strong position. She snaps that she doesn't believe in her culture, adding that if there even was a god, he would probably let her love who she wants to love. Pressing on, she affirms that she wants to cut her hair short and wear edgier clothing. She doesn't want to be an average woman, but a tomboy - and all she wants is for him to accept it. She hopes that she said enough to deter her father, but he grows even more furious. Edwin shouts her name, pushing her head up against the fireplace brick with the intent to kill her for betraying her Jewish heritage. Fearing she'll die of asphyxiation, Winter thinks her life is over as the edges of her vision blur. She catches sight of her father and Daniela, and remembering that a Star of David hangs on the fireplace for her mother, she realizes that Lorelei would have never let this happen to her and would have supported her regardless of who she chose to be. Recalling her advice to follow her heart, Winter burns with her spirit and defies her father for the last time, snapping that her mother would have never let him do this - she would support whatever path she chose in life and she'd do everything in her power to stop him from hurting her. She is a lesbian, loves girls, is a tomboy, and will stand on her own two feet.

Edwin isn't persuaded otherwise, slamming his daughter's head against the fireplace brick, and before she can growl at Daniela, he presses hard against her throat. Winter knows her father is far from done, convinced she'll die at his hands, but to her surprise, he retracts his hand from her throat. She gasps in air, but out of nowhere, her father begins to mutter mutinous words potent as daggers, admonishing her for uttering her mother and Yahweh's names for "wicked" purposes and calling her a traitor, poison, and disgrace. He now sees that her conception was a mistake, labeling her spawn of Satan, and Winter gasps, face pale. Due to her desires to be herself, she is now in severe pain and not even her father's daughter. Winter's heartbeat spirals out of control, weak and barely able to stand from the shock, and she notes that all of this is happening because of her choice to love girls and break conformity since she was little - which has made her a traitor to her father and not even his daughter, lost to corruption. She whimpers, apologizing hopelessly, briefly debating over her worth to Daniela. Edwin, filling with malice, pulls out his pocket knife, mortifying Winter. She stares at the knife in shock as he states that she's chosen to be a sin and has to be dealt with for the decay she caused. He yanks her wrist out, and for a moment, Winter's life flashes before her eyes; she sees everything from when she was little to now. Still believing she is going to die, she apologizes to her mother, wanting to be welcomed in the afterlife. The knife slices the flesh of her skin, and wailing in agony and heartbreak, Winter wildly retaliates to pull herself free. As she does so, she makes a mad grab for the pocket knife, hiding it before her father notices. - though this does nothing to make the situation any less dangerous.

Her father snarls that this is what happens when she's dishonest, insisting that she will forever be judged for what she's done. Winter silently begs that he gives her a chance to heal, but he coldly rejects her, believing that she's no more than a witch. He kicks her and gives her ten minutes to pack her things and leave. Winter nods feverishly, understanding that in ten minutes, she has to leave behind the home that raised her. She hurries, knowing her father will kill her if she wastes her time. Upon packing up her items in her room, Winter grabs her box, not wanting to leave it behind with a murderous Edwin. She returns to the living room, noting that she has likely two minutes before her father kills her, and she observes him clocking her every move. When Daniela excuses her lack of intervention by saying she didn't know it was going to escalate, Winter remembers her ignoring her warnings about her father and snaps that she asked for him to torture her. She adds that while Edwin can call her a sinner and traitor, Daniela deserves it more, blaming her for making her father attack her.

#### *Only in a Waking Dream*

Winter often thinks of her father upon remembering her trauma and the memories, from before the breakup to after it, often giving her panic attacks and bouts of heavy anxiety. She forges his name on school report cards, and soon, she stops calling him "Dad" and simply refers to him as just "Father." Later, she gets stuck in a nightmare of her father assaulting her and leaving her to die in front of Daniela's feet.

#### *Talking of the Axes*

Rex tells Winter that her father was arrested recently and sentenced to thirty years in prison. Winter is ecstatic, hoping he rots in hell, and Rex agrees with her. She also switches his name out on her report cards with Steph's to cover her tracks. Edwin is also mentioned by Winter, Daniela, and Rex when each reflect on his actions. Later, Winter holds her knife and knows it will never belong in her father's hands again, even though the bottom of the handle still bears his initials.

#### *The Foxes and the Hounds*

Winter recalls memories of her parents a few times.

#### *Snowblind*

Winter recounts her experience with her father, and later visualizes him when she reflects on her memories, both good and bad.

#### *Dance of a Thousand Eyes*

Multiple times, Winter mentions her father and remembers his actions, either spurred by memories like Rye Lake or recalling her trauma.

#### *Return of Snowlight*

Daniela reveals to Winter that her father attacked both of them that infamous night, which she refuses to believe is true, and she remembers her father's actions. She also briefly gains parallels twice to what her father did to her. Later, Daniela exposes the fact that Winter forged her father's name onto report cards, and after she runs off, Winter feels like a failure to everyone, including both of her parents. Upon her adoption into the Heartley family, Winter accepts Mya's father as her true father compared to her biological one, and she also has Saul replace her father's initials on her knife with her own.

### *Two-Sided*

#### *The Broken Pieces*

"*Get out of here, Vunquist. If you come back, you will* never *know what hit you.*"
—Edwin threatening Daniela

Daniela notes that while she loved Winter, she didn't like her inability to come out to her father, and constantly felt frustrated when she failed to do so multiple times. Taking matters into her own hands, she forces her to come out on one November night, which ends up scarring her permanently - her father is revealed to be homophobic. He brutally attacks Winter, leaving her bloodied. After she breaks up with her and runs away, Daniela glances at Winter's crazed father, who approaches her. He assaults her, hitting her hard on the face, and threatening her that something will happen if she chooses to come back. Traumatized, Daniela runs home in tears, the memories of her now ex-girlfriend's father jumping on his daughter and scarring her swimming in her head. She later explains what happened to Rex, who promises to get him arrested, but he only ends up getting six months of community service.

#### *Aftermath*

Daniela apologizes to Winter for making her come out to her father unexpectedly.

### *Little Miss Perfect*

Winter, after hearing that Evie's mother tiger parents her, reassures her that she relates, and Evie knows that she is thinking about her biological father - who scarred her and spurred her to run away from home. Later, Daniela taunts Winter by saying that her mother is dead and her father doesn't love her.

### Specials

#### *Daniela Wrecks Christmas*

Mya remembers Winter running from her biological father. She also recalls how her family liked to celebrate Christmas.

## Personality and Traits

Edwin is best described as a very complicated person. Even from the earliest stages of Winter's life, he was shown to be a proud, yet overly strict and protective father who didn't want Winter to get harmed or, at worse, killed. He frequently protected her from harm, such as when he stopped her from consuming her mother's lupus medication or when he saved her from getting hit by Saul in *Birth of Snowlight*. He refused to let Winter do anything he found harmful or a negative influence, a side that especially came out once Winter was integrated into her religion. Edwin took much pride in being Jewish, and as such, wanted Winter to follow his example and remain obedient. He twisted the commandments in the Torah, knowing of his daughter's tendencies to get herself into trouble, and when this didn't work, he further pressured her by scolding her commonly and tracking her movements. This depicted him as needlessly nosy and at times, brash.

Edwin's strictness originated from his youth; his family was highly religious and set examples for him to follow, and he was raised to obey all teachings and ensure the family bloodline was kept intact. Although he was largely unsatisfied with the heavy conditions in his family and sought a more free way of expressing his religious freedom, Edwin treasured some of these teachings and molded himself around them. He was not keen on misbehavior in the least, punishing Winter for what she described to be misdemeanors in *Transformations* and regulating her efforts to break free of his influence. He expressed opposition to her own beliefs, using the Torah to justify them and doubling down to make Winter remain quiet and obedient. Because of his strict side, he was also very forward and traditional, following every commandment in the Torah and always being respectful when around other people except when they posed a threat to his family. He didn't hesitate to share his opinion, even when he was in the wrong or being overly critical, and kept affirming that he had the only right answer. This is best demonstrated with his interactions with Winter in *Transformations*.

Infamously, Edwin was shown with a very hot and short temper which he passed onto Winter. He became irate very easily, and his rage was noted to be terrifying on more than one occassion. In *Choosing Paths*, upon learning that his brother attempted to give Winter, then five, alcohol, Edwin swiftly turned mutinous and assaulted him three times, leaving him bloodied and bruised. Although such violence is not called for in the Torah, he appeared to have ignored this to get his point across, suggesting that Edwin was capable of neglecting the Torah to further his own agenda. When Winter chose to not obey him and even started exhibiting her own hot temper against his, Edwin snapped at her, but realizing that he went too far, he'd pull back and apologize. While Edwin was seemingly unstoppable when angry, Lorelei could soothe him, shown in *Choosing Paths* and *Transformations*.

However, Edwin's sole traits weren't just his anger, overprotectiveness, and inability to take accountability sometimes. At heart, he was shown to be genuine, wanting the best for Winter and soothing her, especially after the death of Lorelei in *Dawn Will Bring Us Death*. He was tender and loving, affectionately soothing Winter when she was upset and listening to her when she vented her concerns. As a father, he was proud (as aforementioned) and took a lot of pride in his daughter. Edwin often told Winter that even if he did not understand her ways of thinking and if she did something he disagreed with, he would never disown or reject her for any reason. After Lorelei's death, Edwin finally saw that his actions had hurt Winter and terrified her, apologizing and promising to atone to her. With her insistence, he carried on her mother's legacy and gave her more freedom, enforcing the Torah less and listening to her plea to no longer attend synagogue. This shows that Edwin was capable of putting his own interests aside whilst maintaining them at the same time. Him getting candid with Winter also shows a sympathetic and valuing side in himself.

Despite Edwin's steps to improve as a father, he did not let go of his religious morals, continuing to insist to Winter that she follow them and not fully disregard her heritage or her ancestors. He had a limit as to how much Winter could break, as depicted twice when he gets shocked (and in the first instance, upset) over her cutting her hair extremely short. Edwin also never fully recovered from Lorelei's death, as he felt obligated to fill in her footsteps and step up to be Winter's sole guardian, a burdensome and melancholy process. Edwin sometimes believed he had failed Lorelei when he messed up, and this, combined with his sensitivity, short temper, desire to obey Judaism, and limits on Winter's deviation from the Torah, culmulated in his most defining moment. When Winter came out as a lesbian with Daniela as her girlfriend, Edwin was enraged, as the Torah prohibited homosexual relationships. His true colors reared their head, and in his subsequent verbal and physical assault of Winter, he was depicted as callous, unforgiving, needlessly violent, and animalistic. He repeatedly branded Winter as a sinner and traitor for standing firm in her athiesm-rooted beliefs, her relations with Daniela, and affirmations that her mother would have never wanted him to do this. Edwin's mutiny would not end there, however, and after he disowned Winter and forced her to run away, he turned on Daniela for corrupting his daughter and threatened to kill her if she ever stepped foot in his house again despite his previous view of Daniela like a second daughter. This verifies that Edwin is not above murder when at his most crazed, and adds additional, sadistic brevity to his attacks on both Daniela and Winter.

## Family

**Mother:**

Anny (Deceased)
**Father:**

Darrell (Deceased)
**Sister:**

Jodie (Living)
**Brothers:**

Barry (Living)
Lewis (Living)
**Former Wife:**

Lorelei (Deceased)
**Daughter:**

Winter (Living)
**Nieces:**

Fanny (Living)
Steph (Living)
**Nephew:**

Brody (Living)
## Trivia

* Edwin is voiced by Jim Pirri.
* Edwin is notably similar to Enji Todoroki (Endeavor) from anime series *My Hero Academia*. Both are callous and abusive father figures who hurt their children, although Edwin notably did not scar his daughter for personal gain, compared to the rigorous, abusive training Endeavor put his son, Shoto, through. He also did not go through a redemption arc and would proceed to abuse Daniela, whereas Endeavor worked hard to prove himself worthy of reconciling with his children.
* Most of his apparel is from Allen Edmonds.
* Winter inherited her temper from him.
* Av believes Edwin has disassociative identity disorder (DID), which worsened heavily after Lorelei's death.
* He is currently in prison for twenty to thirty years on charges of child abuse/endangerment, attempted murder, and conspiracy to commit murder.