Summary

As Chapter Twelve begins, Baker worries about whether the next Odd Wednesday will be as successful. He continues to hear excitement not only from “the fellas” but also from their family members, including wives. When one of the fellas says he cannot make the next meeting, Baker starts to get worried, but then tells himself that getting the notice “was actually good because it meant he knew it was happening and wanted to come, right?” (173). Eventually, the numbers for the next get-together dwindle to four, which seems to work out all right – the weather turned too cold for the barn, and the quartet gathered to watch a hockey game at one of the men’s houses. Baker feels like four is a good number for conversation and companionship, and tries to keep himself from worrying too much that his latest effort is going...