Fresh Water for Flowers

The narrative switches briefly to that of Geneviève Magnan, a housekeeper at the hotel where the children died. Shortly after their death, the chef warns her that Violette is asking questions, and Geneviève remembers how she became involved with Philippe. They had sex regularly in secret until one day he forced her to have sex with another man in his presence.

Violette arrives at Geneviève’s, seeking answers. Geneviève sends her away, so Violette returns home. She tells Philippe she remembers the woman from Léonine’s school, and Philippe grows angry and violent. He tells her never to return to the cemetery. Later, she goes to visit Léonine’s school.

Violette considers Irène’s diary. She often wrote of encountering Violette in the cemetery. After Irène’s night with Gabriel, they argued and Irène returned home.