James Ponder’s disciplined morning routine and the immaculate refinement of Ponder House establish him as a respected, influential Golden figure. Theo arrives to request an appointment and is initially challenged by Ponder’s guarded call-box gatekeeper, Mrs. Gidley, until Ponder himself appears with the mail and reveals his identity.

Inside, Theo takes in the building’s curated antiques and original art, while Ponder quietly assesses Theo’s wealth and taste. Theo draws Ponder out by asking sincere, detailed questions about Ponder House’s architecture and history, giving Ponder a rare chance to share what most people dismiss.

When Theo finally admits his real interest—renting the top-floor apartment—Ponder refuses at first, citing retirement and reluctance to risk bad tenants. Theo answers Ponder’s practical questions (duration, being alone, no pets, tolerance for stairs and noise) and then tries to withdraw the request to avoid pressuring him, while also probing Ponder’s “consultant” work and its reliance on discretion.

Ponder, intrigued, decides to show Theo the apartment anyway and explains the building’s layered security meant to protect clients. Theo admires the view and the well-appointed two-bedroom space, and Ponder—despite his caution and experience with charming frauds—offers to consider renting if Theo provides references.

Theo asks for confidentiality and shares more of his personal story, leading to extensive questioning. By the end of their long meeting, Theo becomes Ponder’s tenant and new client, as well as a neighbor and confidant.

After Theo leaves, Mrs. Gidley confronts Ponder about taking on a new client and admits she distrusts Theo’s smoothness. Ponder shuts down her objections, insists on secrecy, orders a client file under only “Theo,” and instructs her to deep-clean the apartment for Theo’s imminent move-in, leaving the protective secretary alarmed.