Book 2, Chapter 22, (Birthday) Summary

Thursday, June 15, 2006 Clare = 35

Henry turns 43 on June 16 and Clare searches through Vintage Vinyl for something special for him. Vaughan produces something he has been meaning to give to Henry for ages. It is Lulu, an album by Annette Lyn Robinson, Paris Opera, May 13 1968. Clare is elated and purchases the record.

Friday, June 16, 2006 Henry = 43: Clare = 35

Henry is aging fast, his body clock is winding down, his hair is growing pale and gray and he is losing considerable amounts of weight. His work colleagues take him to Beau Thai to celebrate his birthday, they adorn him with lavish gifts and Henry realizes they have concluded he is dying.

Clare and Henry dress for dinner in their best attire. Clare then drives to Pilsen and Lourdes' flat where the two of them enjoy a romantic dinner Nell has prepared. Clare plays Henry...