Summary

Chapter 71 returns to Irene's journal. The entry is dated October 22, 1992. Irene hears Gabriel's voice on television. He is working on a case near Irene's home. When Gabriel invites Irene to meet him, she leaves immediately. She finds him in a cafe, joins a group of men deep in discussion, and feels “like a cheap groupie” (333). While Irene is in his hotel room, she discovers he is now married. He says having sex with Irene is not cheating on his wife though it is a betrayal.

Chapter 72 picks up in 2017. Violette is in the car with Julien and Nathan. Julien and Violette talk quietly about Irene. Julien makes her laugh which makes her think of Sasha, a friend who “saved my life … By making me laugh, like you do” (337).

Chapter 73 drops back to September 1996. Philippe's days fall into a routine. He has breakfast with...