Little Sophie Mol wakes in Chacko's room and feels lonely and homesick. Chacko has temporarily moved out of his room so that his ex-wife and daughter can use it during their visit. On the bedside table, there is a photo of Chacko and Margaret's wedding day. The only family member present that day was Margaret's mother. Her father did not approve of the marriage, as he disliked Indians.
The reader now learns Chacko and Margaret's story. While Chacko is a Rhodes scholar, Margaret is a waitress in an Oxford cafy. An untidy and cheerful Chacko first strolls into the cafy, and after giving his order, he strikes up a conversation with Margaret. He tells her the story of the man who has twin sons, one a pessimist and the.....