The Very Low Tide

Summary

• The protagonist Tova experiences a revelation regarding the familial relationship between Erik and Cameron.
• She recognizes that Cameron is Erik's son through his similar mannerisms, a fact that was seemingly known to Marcellus, her octopus.
• Tova is overwhelmed with grief and cries uncontrollably, reflecting on her loss and asking Marcellus what she will do without him.
• Tova decides to take Marcellus back home and pulls him in a bucket down the waterfront. On the way, she enjoys his quirky responses to the journey.
• Upon reaching a suitable spot on the beach, Tova prepares to release Marcellus and delivers a heartfelt speech thanking him for leading her to her grandson Cameron.
• Tova admits her regrets about Marcellus's life spent in a tank and promises to make his replacement's life better. She also reconsiders her previous plan to move to Charter Village.
• She concludes by telling him that she is glad he was rescued because he ended up saving her. Then, she releases Marcellus into the water, with a heartfelt farewell.