As Scott walks toward the town common to read a new book, he thinks about Deirdre and Missy. Though people group them together when discussing their dislike of the couple, Scott thinks Deirdre is the one people really have a problem with. She’s too “in-your-face” (45). When he reaches the town common, an intense need for movement leads him to run up and down the bandstand steps. He does this six times and his pulse is only slightly elevated.

Scott calls Doctor Bob. After confirming that his weight loss has continued but he actually feels better than fine, Scott asks Bob to have dinner with him at Holy Frijole. They agree to go on Friday, when Bob’s wife, Myra, will be out of town. Myra is on several church and town committees that don’t approve of the restaurant owners because they’re lesbians. When Scott confirms their plans by saying, it’s “a date,” Bob corrects him, specifying it as a “man-date” and adding, “Next you’ll be asking me to marry you” (47).

When they arrive at Holy Frijole on Friday night, Scott admires the restaurant’s decor. He can tell the owners put a lot of work and care into the warm and lively ambience.