last 2 pages of "On Beauty"

I found this to be a different and interesting ending to the book - as Howard is giving a presentation, he completely freezes up. When he comes to the last slide, Rembrandt's love, he seems to be very much reminded of his own love, finding her in the audience. The natural beauty of both women is emphasized in these pages - as Howard seems hopeful and perhaps reflective. He is indeed still in love, and through a few exchanges glances, it seems like everything could work out (despite how he has ruined everything). Maybe Smith is trying to say that true love is forgiving, even in the most extreme circumstances. On the other hand, maybe she is portraying the ultimate failure of Howard, realizing how much he is still in love with beautiful Kiki, but still knowing that things can never be the same.