Summary

As George and Cocoa visit the neighborhoods of New York, they become friends. Cocoa is vaguely disappointed he doesn’t seem to be interested in her romantically, yet impressed by the fact he is a gentleman. Her old life and friends are beginning to seem less attractive. George is ambivalent about his growing affection for her, as he is still involved with Shawn. When he tells Cocoa about her, she acts sympathetic, but declines to see him again. She admits to herself she is manipulating him. He goes for it, and they make a date under the premise of discussing King Lear. Instead, they admit their attraction and go to bed together.

Mama Day and Abigail prepare for the traditional winter Candle Walk, and speculate about Cocoa’s letters. Bernice is healing, and she and her husband bring Mama Day a handmade rocking...