Chapter 7, Amen (pgs. 283-288) Summary and Analysis

The minute Toby arrives in California, Arthur leaves on vacation with his girlfriend. He leaves Toby his car and an expense account at the grocery store. Toby spends his time eating TV dinners, driving by the beach and going to movies. Sometimes, he hangs out with a guy that told Arthur he'd watch over him. One morning, Toby wakes up to the guy hugging him and telling him how much he loves him. Toby kicks him out and calls his dad, who tells him to kill the guy if he comes back. Over the phone, Arthur tells Toby how to work his .223 Air Force Survival Rifle. When the guy comes back, he just leans against the door and sobs while Toby cowers inside.

Arthur returns for a few days, but leaves again after they get...