How does Vera's lengthy flashback affect the plot as a whole?

Vera's lengthy flashback serves as a critical exposition that deepens the reader's understanding of her motivations and the emotional stakes involved in the story. It reveals key backstory elements that clarify her relationships with other characters, influencing their actions and decisions. This retrospective not only adds depth to her character but also creates tension by foreshadowing potential conflicts and resolutions in the present timeline, ultimately driving the plot forward. By weaving her past into the narrative, the flashback enriches the overall emotional landscape of the story.