CHAPTER 20 "Life Story"

Elizabeth enrolls Madeline in kindergarten at almost four by changing her birthdate on the certificate. Madeline reads sixth grade and is bigger than most five-year-olds. Madeline's shyness and introversion influence Elizabeth's decision. Madeline can "sense exactly those things everyone wanted to hide". She draws a tearful Elizabeth in a chalk drawing of her life.

Elizabeth returns to Hastings to find work due to financial difficulties. Harriet disagrees, but Donatti, who seems relieved to see her, agrees. Because the abiogenesis investor is back, Donatti rehires Elizabeth. When Donatti asks the remaining chemists about abiogenesis, Boryweitz says he does but can't explain it. Boryweitz says he met Elizabeth and discussed the topic, and she had the same results.