Billy and Phyllis go for a drink. He tells her that he has given up alcohol while he completes his writing project, but she drinks heavily. When he returns to the house, he meets Beverly Jensen’s husband, Don Jensen. Billy continues to become closer to his neighbors in Midtown and to play monopoly each weekend with the local children. He begins to worry about how they will feel when he is revealed to be a hired killer.

While he is in the Gerard Tower, Billy observes Colin White. He formulates a plan for his escape that involves closely mimicking Colin, whose style makes him conspicuous.

During this time, Georgie provides updates on Joel Allen’s case and estimated arrival via a code based on the supposed editing of Billy’s book. Billy meets with Nick in mid-August. Frankie, Paulie, and two new men—Reggie and Dana Edison—are there, as is Hoff. Billy continues to feel uneasy about Hoff’s role in the plan.

Billy continues to write his book in the voice of his “dumb self.” He describes the aftermath of his sister’s death: He calls the police and then his mother Darlene (disguised as Arlene in his book) at the laundry where she works.