4 Summary

Mr. M. reflects on how stable his life was: a good marriage, a good job, and plans to expand his education and perhaps pursue a doctorate. Mr. M. also reveals that does not feel he has tapped his own potential. Mr. M. also explains this his marriage to his wife, Diane, appears dull and lifeless. He reflects on his friendship with Jack Dexter, who begins teaching the same year as Mr. M. Jack's marriage slows down when his wife, Sherry, gets pregnant. Over time, he begins flirting with Tracy while working on the newspaper, who flirts right back. Mr. M. is partially jealous, and partially horrified when Jack reveals his affair with Tracy.

Tracy explains her affair with Jack is exciting, and puts them both in a daze. Tracy sleeps with Jack, being turned off by the experience. Tracy's mother discovers a love note on...