Part 2, Section 8, "Though I May Prick My Finger" Summary

Ixca dines with the Robles, and observes how Norma assists her husband in the dinner conversation, providing cultural tidbits to fill in his silences. Robles leaves them alone so he can go work, and their conversation becomes very intimate. Ixca asks Norma if she has gotten what she wanted from the marriage, in exchange for the social polish she gave to him. Serving him drinks, Norma admits she is a snob and takes pride in being the "finest that Mexico has to offer." Ixca tells her how much her social expertise has contributed to her husband's success, and begins to let himself be attracted to her. He throws his wine glass on the floor, then hers, and proceeds to seduce her. She realizes that he is unlike...