Chapters 41-46

Offred says her story is almost too painful to bear. She continues to see Nick, and she confides in him. She tells him she believes she is pregnant, but it is just wishful thinking. She spends her time thinking about him.
A woman's execution is held in Harvard Yard. Two handmaids and one wife were hanged. After the hanging, handmaids form a circle, for which most stay to watch. A guardian is beaten and killed. Following the hanging, Offred goes on a shopping trip. She is met by a new woman named Ofglen. The new woman is not part of the resistance, and she says the original Ofglen committed suicide. In this, Offred finds relief. She feels that she will do anything to live. Serena confronts Offred about the club, and she calls her a slut. She waits peacefully in her room. Offred hears the van coming for her. Nick opens her door, and she feels betrayed. He tells her The Eyes are in Mayday and have come to save her. Offred follows the men into the van, and is taken away. The book ends with a cliffhanger, and it is not apparent whether Offred was saved or taken to the colonies.

Offred has to try to convince herself that she is pregnant to achieve any hope at happiness. This is due to the conditions under which she must live. The thought of a pregnancy being the only thing upon which a single person may look forward to for happiness is a very unsettling thought. Offred has reached the point to which she will do seemingly anything to live, but she is caught as a member of the rebellion. The fact that she was caught may have paid off for her, or it may have resulted in her exile. The book leaves a cliffhanger, after which the reader must use his imagination to determine her fate.

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