They went to a restaurant in the middle of downtown Manhattan. Ryder explained that Taylor's great-grandparents had started the restaurant, and it was still owned by the family. When they walked in, the host immediately noticed them and welcomed Mr. Hendrix before leading them to a private room.

Alecia ordered exactly what Ryder told her to, Veal Parmesan. With her hand she played with the bottom of her dress under the table, watching Ryder and his father talk as if they were business partners going over details about how he was doing in school, and the firm. Mr. Hendrix only addressed his wife once, and her twice. How odd. It...