But he didn't turn. Bird, she said again, louder this time. Birdie, my darling, a snoot. I'm going to go now. He did not turn around, and she was grateful for this. because how then could she ever hope to peel herself away” (211-2). Through the diction of “splintering,” Ng depicts Margaret’s voice as a tree beginning to shatter and break apart, emphasizing the gradual fracturing of her usual strength and composure, which underscores her regret and misery of leaving her family behind. Despite her longing to remain by their side, Margaret understands the greater danger they would have to face if she stayed, illustrating her selflessness and unwavering commitment to protecting her loved ones, even at her own expense. Furthermore, Ng also employs the diction “peel” to further highlight Margaret’s reluctance to leave. If Bird were the fruit's flesh, then Margaret would be the skin, protecting the flesh from all the dangers outside. However, stripping away the skin of this unripe fruit conveys a sense of forced detachment, implying that Margaret's departure stands not something she desires, but a painful necessity for the well-being of her