Summary

In this chapter, we see more of Tom and Claudia’s burgeoning relationship. We see the end of their encounter in the desert, and their awkward expression of interest as they part. Their first date, a trip to the zoo, is described, as well as their first night together. Claudia’s face is filled with fear as they have sex, and Tom asks her if it is her first time. It is not, and Claudia’s face is filled not with fear of the sexual act, but with fear of the love that is taking her over for the first time. In this chapter, we also hear some of Tom’s historical reflections. Tom says he prefers the fantasy that one is immune to history to the harsh reality of participating in history. This sentiment appears at odds with Claudia’s own lust for historical experience...