Summary

Hornclaw visits the clinic, hoping to get a note from Dr. Chang that will “exaggerate her current state” (165). However, sitting “with Dr. Kang,” Hornclaw instead says she has “a sniffle and a stomachache” (165). Although Kang recognizes her, he does not mention their previous meeting. At the end of the appointment, Hornclaw hears herself mentioning Kang’s parents’ peaches. She knows the remark sounds like a threat, but Kang “pretends not to notice the malicious hints” (170).

Hornclaw visits Kang’s parents at the market. She observes Haeni’s interaction with her grandmother and buys tangerines. The woman worries over the state of the market, fearing it will go under because of the big box stores. She explains that her husband “is the president of the small-shop owners’ association” (174). Hornclaw wishes she could do something “for this family” (175). Suddenly, Bullfight arrives. His manner unnerves Hornclaw...