Summary

Oliver prepares to tell Colbourne about Christmas break in “Prologue.” They discuss the overpowering effect Shakespeare had on the group’s sensibilities. In “Scene 1,” Oliver leaves Ohio after four days at home. He leaves in a rush as his parents argue with Caroline about her eating habits. Leah begs him to stay, but he ignores her and rushes to the bus station to call Meredith.

Oliver arrives in New York City the next day. The coldness of Meredith’s apartment—contrasted with her happy collage of group photos from Dellecher—shows Oliver how lonely she is. Her older brother, Caleb, never stays in the apartment for long. Oliver and Meredith sleep together on New Year’s Eve. Oliver feels frustrated when his mind wanders to James.

Oliver and Meredith start having sex regularly. They enjoy their week together and fantasize about everyone moving...