Chapter 5 Summary

For several days after she returns home, Evie does not change out of her bathrobe, or clean up her room, or speak to anyone except her father and the maid, Clotelia. Her father wears a disappointed expression, but he and Evie do not discuss their feelings. Clotelia speaks roughly to her, especially about the messes Evie makes around the house, and Evie responds with equal rudeness. Evie reflects wearily that even after four years, Clotelia treats her like a stranger. Mostly, Clotelia likes to watch soap operas on television, and she shows little inclination to do any real work. They watch TV together, discussing the plots and bickering, with Clotelia even telling Evie she is fat. When Violet visits, Clotelia tells both of them that Drum Casey will never come to visit. Evie wants Violet to tell her what they are saying about...