Summary

In Chapter 6, “The Office Party,” two days before Christmas, Bowen decided to busk in Covent Garden. He also wanted to give out “a few more Christmas cards” (105). The streets were snowy and crammed with “anxious-looking people” trying to finish “their shopping” (105). Although Bowen’s circumstances were not perfect, he did not envy the people’s frantic energy. To escape the commotion, Bowen and Bob headed to Cambridge Circus.

Almost immediately after arriving, Bowen encountered “a thickset, thirty-something guy” (108). He realized the man was selling drugs. The man recognized Bowen “from years back” (108). The man pushed him to buy from him. Bowen refused. He not only knew how dealers took advantage of “addicts’ dependency and weakness” at this time of year, but had no interest in relapsing (109). When the dealer would not let Bowen pass, Bob struck him. The man grew angry. After getting away...