She'd forgotten about the tree. Forgotten what it was there for until John goes to it and even then it's distant. Abstract. There is no meaning behind it that connects to her life, no memories, just the vague sense of other people's traditions. She thinks she enjoyed it the first year, all the decorations and parties, and twinkling lights. But now she doesn't feel anything about it at all except vague confusion.

"What is this for, John?" The box is light in her hand and beautifully presented but she can't quite remember from one moment to the next. Had he explained what the gift is for? Had she been expecting it? Nothing since that alley seems to fit together in any kind of coherent, narrative way and it's making her feel disconnected again.