Chapter 8 Summary

As the hot summer wears on, Nathan, Sophie, and Stingo increasingly spend their evenings in an air-conditioned cocktail lounge called the Maple Court. There were few bars to choose from in Flatbush, so, despite its faintly seedy atmosphere, the friends came to love the relaxed feel and cheap beer. Nathan preferred to order wine for himself and Sophie, a rare luxury in bar like the Maple Court. Over drinks one night, Nathan apologizes for setting Stingo up with a girl who would not put out. Stingo, embarrassed to admit the truth, lies and assures Nathan that he and Leslie did have sex. When Stingo launches into a big story about their sexual encounter, Nathan realizes he is putting him on. They clink glasses and forget about Leslie.

Stingo reflects on Sophie and Nathan, who seem like an old, married couple now. Were it...