Summary

In Chapter 15, Simon returned home to his silent apartment. After talking to his mother, he studied his messages with Eileen. Finally she responded. Simon asked if she was free. She agreed to come over. Twenty minutes later, Eileen arrived (153). They drank tea on the couch, and talked about their families. Simon was more withholding. Eileen urged him to keep talking, as he gave her a foot massage. Their conversation evolved, and they became more intimate. Finally they had sex. Afterwards, they ate ice cream and watched television. They talked more about their relationship. Eileen assured Simon she was always there for him when he got lonely or sad. By the end of the evening, Eileen felt satisfied and happy. Her relationship with Simon felt more assured.

In Chapter 16, Eileen emails Alice. She writes more about "the meaning of life on earth" and about...