Part I: Section 25 Summary

Out on the widow's walk, Behrani again remembers Jasmeen, and his daughter's repeatedly apologizing for the family's current living quarters by talking solely of the grandeur of their life in Iran. He knows he both must sell the house and move his family into more modest housing to stretch out his remaining cash. He recognizes the pity in Soraya's expression...pity and shame. Concluding that he has had too much time on his hands since the fall of his society, he disciplines himself to purchase more "for sale" signs before the department stores close. Esmail says he will take a second paper route and give him all the money he earns. Behrani recognizes this gesture and shakes his hand, although wishing instead to embrace his son. Nadi says she wants to call her sister tomorrow, promising that she will...