Part 1, Chapter 9 Summary

Gretchen and Willie have moved in together. Gretchen returns home one afternoon and finds Rudolph and Willie waiting for her in the apartment. Gretchen has not told her family she was living with a man so she is a little ashamed that Rudolph has found out this way, but does not apologize. Gretchen and Rudolph talk about home for a few minutes before Rudolph gives her the package Boylan wanted Gretchen to have. Rudolph then leaves Gretchen and Willie admiring the dress.

Willie asks Gretchen to put the dress on for him. Willie likes the dress, but Gretchen feels it is too sexy, too grown up. They make love before discussing their day. Gretchen is still working in the theatre and Willie has a job writing for a magazine. Willie also hopes to be a successful playwright. Gretchen tells Willie that...