9. December 2–14, 2018

Summary

• The chapter describes a genteel neighborhood, Victorian Row, where residents decorate for Christmas with taste and moderation as dictated by the Neighborhood Association.
• Emily (Em) and Rodney (Roddy) Harris, an elderly couple living at 93 Ridge Road, have not put up their usual decorations due to their declining health.
• Em is in wheelchair due to her severe sciatica, while Roddy struggles with arthritis.
• The couple contemplates that they may not host their traditional Christmas gathering due to their ailments but remain hopeful they will feel better soon.
• Em experiences a moment of hunger as Roddy prepares dinner, reflecting that it's a good sign of health, and recalls past Christmas parties fondly.
• They enjoy a fine dinner prepared with their best tableware and reminisce about the old times while savoring the meal and speaking of people they've known.
• Liver is served as the main course by Roddy, who has prepared it with special herbs and garnishes.
• As they watch their favorite TV show, 'Haunted Case Files', after dinner, Em finds some relief from her pain, hinting at an unusual connection between their food and their health.
• It is subtly implied that the meat served for dinner is human, specifically the liver and brains of a boy named Peter Steinman, which are consumed to alleviate their health issues.
• After their meal, Em and Roddy share a dessert made from raspberry sorbet mixed with Peter Steinman’s brains.
• Almost two weeks before Christmas, Em seems to have recovered remarkably from her sciatica, hinting that the consumption of the human organs has a rejuvenating effect.
• The couple’s health improvements lead to a lighthearted exchange about their conditions and a reflection on their past trip to Australia.
• Em and Roddy acknowledge that the young boy was a particularly good source for their rejuvenation, though they are unsure of how long the effects will last.
• Survival is clearly a priority for them, as they express contentment with life despite their limitations, suggesting they will continue their cannibalistic practices.
• The chapter ends with Em deciding to proceed with the Christmas party now that she is pain-free, while they contemplate the brief newspaper attention the disappearance of their latest victim received.