Summary

The waiter at the cafe comes to take the dinner order from Changez. His speech, Urdu and chant like, disturbs the American. Changez explains that he is not praying as the American suspects, but simply orally transmitting the menu. Once dinner is ordered, Changez continues with his story. Following their last romantic encounter Changez did not hear from Erica for two weeks. He gave her space, but finally attempted to contact her. They met at her apartment and Changez was greeted at the door by her mother, who took Changez aside to speak privately. She was concerned for her daughter's emotional state and informed Changez that what Erica needed most was a stable friend, not a boyfriend. He agreeed to her request, mostly because of her obvious desperation over the situation. His time with Erica was casual and relaxed until Changez asked her...