Nine Perfect Strangers

Ben knows that the lockpick plan will never work. He sits beside Jessica and thinks about his drug-fueled experiences the previous night; he doesn’t think he’ll follow in Lucy’s footsteps and become someone with a drug addiction, though he did enjoy himself. He remembers his sister before addiction took over her life. Jessica assures Ben that he’s “not an addict now” (195). He has vague memories of the night before; he can’t remember Jessica explaining that she’s pregnant, but he’s decided that he wants to return to work even if he doesn’t need the money. When Jessica goes to the restroom, Zoe approaches Ben. They talk about Zach and Lucy. As Jessica returns, Ben is struck by a revelation. He knows that he loves her, but the kissing of the previous day felt like he was “saying goodbye” (197).

Frances watches as the other guests react differently to their imprisonment. Heather sleeps, Lars sings, and Napoleon stares quietly at his watch. Some exercise, some talk. Frances catches herself making eye-contact with Tony. She tries to think about what motivates Masha. Ben suddenly remembers that his wife is pregnant.

In Masha’s office, Delilah listens to