The Quiet Tenant

Content Warning: This section of the guide briefly describes murder and sexual assault.

The narrative resumes from Emily’s perspective. When Judge Byrne, whose house Aidan is renting, decides to organize a 5k race to benefit Aidan and Cecilia, Emily agonizes over the Facebook comment she edits several times before posting her offer to set up a hot cocoa stand representing Amandine’s support of the race. She is thrilled when Aidan himself comments an enthusiastic endorsement. On the morning of the race, she watches as Aidan gives a brief speech before the race begins, availing herself of the opportunity to ogle him. Later, she is delighted to accept Aidan’s help in setting up her folding table. Emily indulges herself in the fantasy of the moment as she and Aidan recreate her father’s recipe, flirting back and forth amidst the new intimacy of their circumstances. He keeps her company at the cocoa stand, and before he leaves, he offers her his phone number. On her drive home, Emily is giddy with happiness.

“Rachel’s” perspective depicts her first night at dinner with Cecilia and Aidan. She finds herself developing a sincere affection for the girl, who loves Jeopardy and marvels at “Rachel’s” wealth of musical knowledge.