The Second Life of Mirielle West

The next day, Mirielle works at the shot clinic. At first, the process makes Mirielle queasy, but soon she becomes busy, and the morning passes quickly. After lunch, more patients line up for their shots, and there is some arguing as Jean cuts in line. Mirielle tries to protect Jean from the others’ jeering while Frank indicates he has been saving the place in line for Jean.

Before Mirielle notices, Jean steals a handful of cotton balls and throws them in the air. Sister Verena disapproves, but Frank tells Mirielle that Jean deserves some compassion. She has been at Carville for three years and none of her family has tried to contact her since her arrival.

The next day, Mirielle works in the pharmacy. As she surveys the room, she imagines herself discovering the cure for the disease. Instead, she fills trays of capsule molds with hot gelatin. Irene works alongside her, chatting and never burning herself on the hot liquid as Mirielle does. Mirielle learns of Irene’s history: She lost a husband to war, gave birth to a son, married again, and divorced, and was living with her son on a farm in Texas when the disease appeared.