Chapter 8

Contains spoilers

Overview

Blake spends a morning doing household chores while grappling with anxiety over unemployment. He encounters new tenant Whitney in the kitchen, where casual small talk and shared nostalgia over cereal create an easy rapport that edges into flirtation. The scene underscores Blake’s restlessness and vulnerability, and hints at budding attraction complicated by their living arrangement and his engagement to Krista.

Summary

Blake plans to change the water in the household fish tank, a chore he has assumed since losing his job, along with most cleaning tasks. He details the careful process required to maintain the fish, Goldy, emphasizing his commitment because the fish represents a “practice child” for him and Krista. His domestic routine reflects his attempt to stay busy to avoid depression and insomnia.

While preparing to clean the tank, Blake becomes transfixed watching Goldy and slips into a moment of self-doubt, voicing fears about never working again and potentially losing the house. He recognizes he is effectively talking to a fish and decides he needs breakfast, highlighting his unsettled state.

In the kitchen, Blake is surprised to find Whitney, who is dressed in a skimpy tank top and short pajama shorts. The casual intimacy of her attire makes Blake self-conscious, particularly because he is in boxer shorts. Despite this, they exchange friendly greetings.

Whitney selects an apple and asks if it is hers to eat, and Blake insists she can have it. He reaches for a box of Frosted Flakes, aiming for a quick meal and an exit to avoid awkwardness. Whitney expresses enthusiasm for the cereal, noting it evokes nostalgia from her childhood.

They bond over memories of collecting box tops for a secret decoder pen, and Whitney remarks that when she wants something, she lets nothing get in her way. Blake agrees, sharing the sentiment. The exchange creates a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding.

Whitney hesitates to take the cereal, worried about overusing their food and dishes, but Blake offers it, joking about “grr-eatness,” which makes her laugh. Blake is charmed by her laugh and overall demeanor, acknowledging to himself that, despite his resentment about needing a roommate, he likes Whitney.

Who Appears

  • Blake Porter
    narrator and unemployed former marketing VP; performs household chores, expresses anxiety about work and finances, and bonds with Whitney over cereal.
  • Whitney Cross
    new tenant; appears casually dressed in the kitchen, shares nostalgic conversation with Blake, displays considerate behavior about using their food, and signals determination in her personality.
  • Krista Marshall
    Blake’s fiancée; mentioned as being in the shower and formerly responsible for the fish tank.
  • Goldy
    Blake and Krista’s pet fish; prompts Blake’s reflection and symbolizes their “practice child.”
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