Dream State

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of illness, death, suicidal ideation, mental illness, and substance use.

Cece Calhoun arrives at a cottage in Salish, Montana, that is owned by the parents of her fiancé, Charlie Margolis. She immediately loves its rustic charm and remote location, surrounded by orchards with a lake just across the road.

On the morning after her arrival, she takes a swim and, as she exits the lake, is met by Garrett Meek. Garrett, Charlie’s college friend, will be their wedding officiant. He admits to Cece that Charlie asked him to check on her. Because Charlie has spoken highly of Garrett, Cece is surprised to find him unkempt; he also has a dull, negative air about him. She makes an excuse about having a morning meeting with the wedding caterer in order to get rid of Garrett. As he leaves, he gives Cece a small bag of marijuana, which she will use as a sleeping aid.

Garrett works his shift at the airport, where he loads and unloads luggage for Maverick Air. Afterward, he drives to his father’s house, which previously belonged to Garrett’s grandparents. His 57-year-old father is dying of pulmonary fibrosis.