Houston

Much of the novel is set in the large, populous city of Houston, Texas. Benson was born and raised in Houston. He has loved on his own for several years, and he works at a daycare. Mike has lived in Houston since he was very young, and his parents have since moved back to different parts of Japan. Houston is a very ethnically diverse city, which is reflected in the novel.

Apartment

Benson and Mike live together in an apartment in Houston. They have lived together for nearly all of their four-year relationship. At about the same time that Mike departs to go to Japan, Mitsuko arrives from Japan. For the duration of Mike’s absence, Benson and Mitsuko live together in the apartment. They have a tense rapport at first, but they gradually grow somewhat affectionate.

Japan

Mike was born in Japan, and a few years later...