Chapter Five Summary

Rachel relates a tale about her past in Washington. On a quiet afternoon while cooking Rachel had heard a scream. Noting the time, Rachel tells Mark that if anyone had been murdered on the block that day it had happened at 3:20. At the time Mark had not reacted, and Rachel wondered if she was becoming one of those women who stay at home and try and make things happen. Rachel also wondered if Mark was right. Thinking back on that time now, Rachel realizes that it was the same time as Mark's affair with Thelma was beginning, and that he had acted as if he didn't care because he really didn't. Rachel wonders if she had an idea, even that early, that Mark was cheating. The thought that she had been so oblivious is painful.

Mr. Abbey, the neighbor across the...