I Must Betray You

Cristian is summoned again to speak with the Securitate. He briefly debates how he should behave around the agent but immediately blurts out the news of Bunu’s death. The agent offers condolences, explaining that Bunu had a mental health condition. Cristian is guarded, certain that he cannot trust the agent. He attempts to speak with him about soccer, but instead the agent brings up Bruce Springsteen. This lets Cristian know that someone must be informing on him because he never told the agent about the magazine article. He questions Cristian about the contents of Mr. Van Dorn’s desk. Cristian tells him about the American newspapers and magazines but does not offer much detail. The agent notes that, with Mrs. Van Dorn and Dan leaving for the upcoming holiday, Mr. Van Dorn will be alone in the apartment.

Cristian leaves, disappointed that he was not able to manipulate the agent. Starfish offers to sell him American papers. Cristian considers this, asking to see the papers first. A cross and candles adorn his apartment building once more and he knows that the elderly woman has passed away. He shares his condolences with the daughter, who is making plans to leave for Boston in a few days.