Summary

Chapter 1 opens in the city of Houston, Texas. The main character, Benson, is a lifelong resident of Houston, He is Black, homosexual, and is in his early-to-mid-twenties. He is in a relationship with Mike, who is of Japanese descent. They have been dating for about four years. Mike is departing to go to Japan to visit his estranged father, who is dying of cancer. Mike’s mother, Mitsuko, is coming to Houston for a planned visit. Mitsuko arrives in Houston and is upset that Mike is going to Japan so soon after her arrival in Houston. Mike has not seen his mother in years. Benson has reluctantly agreed to host Mitsuko in his apartment until Mike’s return. Benson gives some exposition on his parents. They are divorced and are uncomfortable with Benson’s homosexuality. Benson’s father is an alcoholic who worked...