The apartment symbolizes a sanctuary full of cherished memories for Shay's family, representing stability and a labor of love, especially for her grandfather who built the house. It's a source of heartache to leave it behind.
The apartment represents a sanctuary and a profound part of Shay's family history, as indicated by the emotional connection her grandfather has with the house. It's clear that the family is being forced to leave their home against their will, which suggests that the apartment symbolizes something that has been earnestly and lovingly built over a lifetime.
Grandfather's palpable distress at having to leave, emphasizing the importance of the home beyond its physical structure, ties into the heartache of abandonment and loss. Shay's family is not only leaving behind a building but also the memories and stability it provided them during times of joy and sorrow.
The probable question may be:
What does the apartment symbolize for Shay's family, and why is leaving it causing such emotional distress, especially for her grandfather?