Chapter 7 Summary

On the ride home, Lutie is concerned about Boots' risky driving. She finds herself filled with a sudden access of warmth for her tiny dark apartment. She would rather be in the apartment alive than dead in the river.

Lutie is curious about how Boots can get gas for his car. He tells her that if you pay the right price you can find the gas. She also asks how he managed to avoid being drafted. He tells her he has something wrong with his ear, but his reaction causes Lutie to believe his ear is not what kept him out of the Army. She lets the subject drop, because it seems to agitate Boots.

When Boots finally does slow down, a motorcycle policeman pulls him over for speeding. Boots hands him his license and a card. Lutie notices a bit later that...