Summary

In the car with Russ, Frances called attention to Perry on the street. Russ felt overwhelmed by guilt. Frances said that her son, Larry, admired Perry. Then she asked Russ how old he thought his kids "should be before they try marijuana" (191). Her question surprised Russ. Frances said when she had come home one day she found Larry smelling of pot. Because he had been spending time with Perry, she assumed Perry had given it to him. Shocked, Russ silently blamed Marion. She had a special affection for Perry, and excused everything he did.

Frances continued talking, mentioning her relationship with a surgeon named Philip, who Larry did not like. Russ felt embarrassed. He had not known she was seeing anyone. Frances admitted that she did not miss her husband.

As Frances talked more about Larry, Russ could not stop thinking about...