Free Food for Millionaires

Casey interviews with three men: Kevin Jennings, Walter Chin, and Hugh Underhill. They are all skeptical that she really wants the modest job as a sales assistant. The interview pauses as lunch is served. At the buffet, the wealthy employees eat greedily, pushing to the front. Walter observes to Casey that “rich people can’t get enough of free stuff” (91). While at the office, Casey also meets a beautiful woman named Delia who works as the sales assistant for another team. Finally, Kevin offers Casey the job, though he insists that she’ll need to stay in the role for at least two years.

Casey begins her new job, confident that she will be competent. She is more concerned about her living situation, since her interactions with Ted remain tense: “Ted’s teasing felt aggressive and mean spirited” (97). Ella, in contrast, loves spending time with Casey and is even hopeful that Casey could begin a relationship with Ella’s cousin, Unu.

One Sunday in August, Casey accompanies Ella and Ted to church. Casey doesn’t know that Ted has told Jay that Casey is staying with Ella. Jay surprises them in the street after the church service; on catching sight of him, Casey immediately punches him.