The Best of Me

The next day, Amanda meets Dawson at Tuck’s place, and they drive down to Tuck’s cottage in Vandemere in the Stingray. Amanda apologizes for her intimate behavior the previous day and tells Dawson that she has not mentioned him to her mother or husband. During the drive, Amanda feels at ease and is tempted to imagine a future with Dawson. They negotiate paths through the wilderness to reach the cottage and are astounded by its beautiful setting.

Tuck’s cottage in Vandemere is idyllic and cozy, surrounded by a garden of colorful wildflowers. It is the garden that Tuck has planted for Clara. Dawson and Amanda take in the beauty of the surroundings, and Amanda is glad to be there with Dawson. The cottage is tastefully decorated, and its hominess prompts Amanda to again imagine a future with Dawson.

They open Tuck’s letter that is meant to be read before scattering his ashes. In the letter, Tuck describes the powerful spiritual connection he felt with Clara. When he was in the navy, his ship was bombed, and he was adrift in the ocean with little hope of survival. Nevertheless, he sang his and Clara’s favorite song, “For Me and My Gal,” hoping that the song would reach Clara and he would make it back to her.