Summary

Bhima rides to the market with Viraf. She appreciates not having to fight the crowds to ride the bus. The crowds seem mean. There is no consideration given to women or frail people. She reflects that the whole city seems cruel.

Viraf tells Bhima that he has a doctor friend who is going to help him find someone to perform the abortion for Maya. Bhima does not feel gratitude at his offer. Instead, she feels resentful at how easy it is for him to talk about getting rid of the baby. She is tired of birth and death. She is also afraid to love any more people because she knows they will eventually betray her. Then, she feels guilty about being resentful of Dinaz’s happiness.

When Viraf drops her off he waits to see that she gets safely across the street...