Milkman, who is now 31, remains immature and aimless. He feels profoundly bored, especially with his relationship with Hagar. Though they are cousins, Milkman has been sleeping with Hagar since he was 17. Although everyone knows about their relationship, Hagar is “considered his private honey pot, not a real or legitimate girlfriend—not someone he might marry” (91). He realizes it is time for him to break off the relationship, so for Christmas, he gives Hagar some cash and a letter announcing his desire to end their relationship, a letter which ends with an expression of “gratitude” for their time together. The letter’s lack of love and empathy drives Hagar to a mindless fury.

Milkman’s relationship with his best friend Guitar is also rocky. They get in an argument when Guitar accuses Milkman of not being serious enough about his life. Guitar says that they have grown apart because Milkman is interested in different things, like parties and beach houses at Honoré Island. Guitar thinks Milkman lacks the skills necessary to survive when life gets tough.

While at work at his father’s office, Milkman wonders about his goals in life. He’s good at his father’s real estate business, but his heart isn’t in it.