Part 1, Chapter 4 Summary

Jeff sends Melody a beautiful scarf for Christmas, because it is a perfect gift for her and he wants to be "perfect in his love." Jeff and the Professor never celebrate Christmas in a traditional way, but do always exchange one present. Jeff makes breakfast and gives his father a gift of a belt, and then the Professor awkwardly wishes Jeff a merry Christmas, and gives him a large box with an old Martin guitar inside. Jeff holds the guitar and starts to cry. He thanks his father and then runs out of room, thinking that, because the Professor hates tears and emotions, crying would be a terrible way to show him how much he likes the gift. Jeff is overwhelmed with feelings and plays Melody's songs on the guitar all morning. When Jeff stops for a sandwich, the Professor comes...