VIII. Present: Experiments With Aliens (Cont'd.), The Art of Successful Entertaining, and Killing Time Summary

Experiments With Aliens (Cont'd.)

This brief chapter returns to the conversation between Gordon and Isobel.

Isobel asks for clarification regarding Gordon's shocking statement. Gordon says that what he meant to say is that he "killed her spirit" by wanting her to change.

The Art of Successful Entertaining

On Christmas Eve, Isobel sleeps into the afternoon. Gordon prepares the Christmas turkey, and Debbie obsessively makes hundreds of mince pies. Vinny has given the baby a name: Jodi. Isobel rushes out of the house on her way to Hilary's party. Gordon warns her about limited bus service, but Isobel says that she intends to get a ride home from Malcolm Lovat.

Isobel arrives to find the party already in...