The Prayer Box

Tandi meets Paul and asks to borrow a tall ladder to access a high shelf in Iola’s house. Paul shares that Iola was from New Orleans, and her will leaves the property to the church. He agrees to bring a ladder to her cottage later.

When Tandi returns home, she and Zoey argue after Tandi finds her dressed in new clothes and preparing to leave with Rowdy. Shortly after, a man from an investment company dismisses Iola’s house as a teardown, but Tandi sends him away. Inside, J.T. explains he has been eating leftover doughnuts to help save money. Horrified, Tandi resolves to find a real job immediately. Later that night, Tandi recalls Iola’s early letters and Sister Marguerite’s guidance about using writing to release pain. This reflection deepens her sense of responsibility toward Zoey, as she recognizes that, like Iola, her daughter needs someone to affirm her worth and beauty.

The following morning, Tandi’s job search at the local library is unsuccessful. Discouraged, she drives to Sandy’s Seashell Shop to return the box of suncatchers that belonged to Iola. The shop is clearly storm-damaged, and Tandi overhears the owner, Sandy, discussing a failed inspection.

Sandy speaks fondly of Iola, recalling her anonymous generosity.