In 1975, Sam authors an essay about his ocular albinism and receives a scholarship for college. Additionally, an article he writes about Ernie makes the front page of the newspaper, the Associated Press runs it. Ernie accepts an offer to play football at Stanford University, and while Sam anxiously awaits acceptance from Stanford, Mickie commits to attend the University of California Davis. Sam considers moving forward in his relationship with Mickie but still worries it will ruin their friendship. He tells Mickie he might not have children, fearing he would pass on the red eye trait. Mickie reassures him he will be a great father. Max has been more tired than usual, but he and Madeline rejoice with Sam when his acceptance letter from Stanford arrives. Sam can hardly believe it is true.

Graduation day arrives, and Sam and his parents exchange tearful hugs. He realizes his parents are aging and that he will be leaving them soon. He and Ernie attend graduation parties until the early hours of the morning, and Mickie stays home with Madeline to watch a movie. Sam returns home to find Mickie in tears. Something has happened to his father.

At the hospital, Sam and Mickie wait with Madeline for the doctor’s report.