S. pries for details about where he is, a place Osfour describes as “where you meet people you’re supposed to meet.” Upon further inspection, S. realizes he’s where works of art are protected. Since an invasion is momentarily imminent, everyone is busy storing paintings, tapestries, and other art works.

Surrounding S., people are moving art.

Jen asks Eric if he thinks FXC is trustworthy. Eric believes so, saying FXC “wishes us well.” (Even though she never met Jen). The issue of trust is important to Jen and Eric, especially as Isla and Moody become more suspicious.

The couple plans to see a movie, Shadow of a Doubt. It’s a real 1943 movie about a murderer. Jen says she’ll be nervous. The humanity between the two is a nice relief from other moments of tension and mystery.

Jen says the two can’t “use” the room at the Pronghorn. Eric says it’s for the best since Moody and Isla are there a lot too. At this point in the novel, Isla and Moody are becoming the main antagonists, however, it’s unclear why they’re so evil.

Eric talks about how great college was for him, because he could truly be himself. “Felt less like a freak.” He was free of the negative influences of his parents and high school attitudes towards learning. He got along well with his roommate, and he was able to learn “anything/everything.” Jen remarks how like relationships, a lot of things are the best at first. Once we realize the importance of being committed to something, that thing becomes less enjoyable. This idea represents one of the philosophical explorations of the facts of life discussed throughout the novel. This passage also makes learning central to Eric’s identity.