After Liane Willey had finished her MA degree, she was fortunate enough to meet Tom Willey. Tom does not have a speaking role in the book. He is only described by Liane in her own words. From what she tells us, Tom has been the most supportive and important person in her life. Initially, Liane and Tom bonded due to many common traits. For instance, both of them had an affinity for solitude, order and cleanliness. Tom was unusually tolerant of Liane's behaviors. He did not condescend to her or try to change her. Instead, he largely adjusted to her behaviors and enjoyed his life with her.