Candy, a one-handed ranch hand, eventually learns of George and Lennie's plans and offers to invest in the farm; Crooks, the black stable hand, is also made aware of George and Lennie's plans and wishes to become part of the dream. While the men work the fields and contemplate their future, Curley's wife, interrupts their dream.

While the men recognize the danger that Curley's wife poses to the group, and especially Lennie, there is little that they can do to avoid her. She, too, has had to give up her dreams and must make do with the hand she was dealt. Curley's wife tempts fate as she tries to strike up a friendship with Lennie, and knowing that he likes to pet soft things, offers Lennie the opportunity to pet her soft hair. Her reaction to his expected behavior tragically leads to her death as Lennie does not comprehend her...
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