Summary

In Chapter 3, Charlie and Miranda finish compiling Adam's personality. He thinks of Adam as a child the two of them have created. When he feels Adam is ready for socialization, he takes him to visit his local newsagent Simon Syed. While Charlie and Mr. Syed are talking, Adam joins in, philosophizing about "the mystery of the self" (76).

The longer Charlie and Miranda see each other, the more enigmatic she seems. Charlie grows frustrated with Miranda's inability to be vulnerable. She seems only capable of engaging in political conversation, topics on which they do not agree. Whenever they are together, Charlie notes how flawless her body is. One particular night he is filled with acute desire and simultaneous frustration. Their political discussion turns sour when Charlie accuses Miranda of heartlessness. When she leaves to go upstairs, she tells Adam to charge for the night...