Water for Elephants

Marlena, escorted by Earl, meets with Uncle Al and decides to go to a hotel. August begs for her forgiveness. Jacob takes her to a hotel, but they’re refused a room because they aren’t married. As they leave, the owner recognizes Marlena from the circus broadsides. Jacob leaves her to go tend to the animals. Uncle Al summons him and says that they can’t afford to lose Marlena. Jacob insists that she can’t return to August’s abuse. Al reveals that August has a mental health condition. Al says he’ll work on calming August if Jacob can persuade Marlena to reconcile with him. Jacob denies August’s accusation of the affair but refuses to help bring Marlena back to him. Al insidiously threatens Walter and Camel. August approaches Jacob while he’s grooming Rosie’s toenails. He half-heartedly apologizes and asks where Marlena is staying. When Jacob refuses to share that information, he flicks his cigarette into Rosie’s mouth and vows to find Marlena himself. Jacob goes to warn Marlena, but the hotel owner, Albert, stops him. As Jacob forces past him, Marlena tells Albert that Jacob is safe. August has already been there looking for her. Marlena initiates sex with Jacob, and they fall into bed.