Chapter 5 Summary

Chapter 5 happens on the same Monday as Chapter 4. After dinner, VJ goes to his bedroom while Victor and Marsha argue about VJ. As usual, Marsha voices concerns about VJ's personality. Victor quickly dismisses her. Then, Victor declares he wants VJ to undergo a complete neuro-medical workup. Marsha is taken aback, and assumes Victor is withholding information.

Victor and Marsha discuss VJ's past; he was born exceptionally gifted, but at age three and a half, he had an unobserved episode which resulted in a catastrophic drop in IQ and ability. Since that time, VJ has exhibited only an above-average IQ. Marsha finally agrees to medical procedures on the condition that Victor will explain his reasoning. Victor agrees, but says he will have to take her to the lab to explain.

Victor and Marsha go to VJ's room to tell him about the next day...