Pages 203-233 Summary

Alexander talks about what a hot and dry summer it was when he was having the affair with Mrs. Gray. He mentions her flicking her cigarette out into the woods near the Cotter place after they have sex in the car one day. This is the same day Mrs. Gray tells Alexander she's going away with her family to the beach for two weeks.

Alexander cries, sobs and begs her not to go. This is when they notice three little boys with bikes staring at them in the car. Mrs. Gray says if those boys tell on them that she won't be going anywhere.

After the Grays leave for vacation, Alexander is wandering around town when he runs into Mr. Gray's assistant, Miss Flushing, in the optical shop doorway. She mentions Mr. Gray is working everyday and then taking the train...