Contents
Part Two — Chapter Eighteen
Overview
Theo obsesses over confirming Kathy’s suspected affair but finds no new evidence, fueling paranoia and self-doubt. Kathy claims a Thursday meeting with “Nicole,” which Theo senses is a lie. He resolves to verify her story, escalating his private surveillance and deepening the parallel between his domestic crisis and his work on Alicia.
Summary
Theo returns home to an empty flat and attempts to access Kathy’s email, but she’s logged out. He berates himself for not saving the incriminating emails he once saw while high and begins doubting his memory, inventing explanations that might exonerate Kathy.
Outwardly, life with Kathy continues: they walk together and converse normally, but Theo’s internal monologue spirals with questions about her fidelity and intentions. He secretly checks her phone during showers and finds nothing, which sharpens his suspicion and frustration.
While they sit on the couch, Kathy types on her laptop and claims she’s emailing a cousin in Sydney. She later mentions meeting their friend Nicole after rehearsal on Thursday. Theo notices her evasive gaze and senses a lie but says nothing.
Unable to secure proof and fearing he’s going mad, Theo nonetheless resolves to verify Kathy’s story. The chapter ends with his decision to find out the truth about Thursday’s meeting.
Who Appears
- Theo FaberNarrator; obsessively seeks proof of Kathy’s affair, finds none, doubts himself, and decides to verify her Thursday alibi.
- KathyTheo’s wife; appears caring but secretive, logs out of email, claims a Thursday meetup with Nicole that arouses suspicion.
- TonyKathy’s director; cited as influential in rehearsals and possibly part of her concealed communications.
- NicoleFriend Kathy claims to meet Thursday; serves as the pretext Theo doubts and plans to check.