bertha young, a thirty-year-old woman, experiences a sudden feeling of bliss while walking down her street. she revels in the beauty of a tray of fruits and a blooming pear tree on her balcony. bertha reflects on her seemingly perfect life - youth, love with her husband harry, an adorable baby, financial stability, and a circle of creative and exciting friends. as guests arrive for dinner, including the intriguing pearl fulton, bertha is caught in the joy of the moment. the mention of a flowering pear tree lingers in her mind, symbolizing her contentment. during dinner, the thought of being alone with harry in their quiet house excites her, marking the first time she desires him. the story explores the complexity of bertha's emotions and hints at the unexpected turns life might take despite apparent contentment.