Chapter 10: The Leash

Summary

• Elizabeth, the main character, is ambivalent about putting Six-Thirty, a creature with human-like qualities, on a leash.
• A leash law is introduced in the city, prompting Elizabeth to reconsider her stance.
• She buys a leash and waits for Calvin, another character, to notice. After he doesn't, Elizabeth brings up the topic.
• Calvin is dismissive of the leash law, believing it doesn't apply to Six-Thirty, who is well-behaved.
• Elizabeth argues that the law is meant for everyone, citing an increase in pet deaths, and mentions that Six-Thirty did not object to the leash on a previous walk.
• Calvin likes running with Six-Thirty without a leash and expresses his confidence in their routine.
• They discuss the rowing practices and potential participation in a spring regatta.
• Despite mutually lying about their enthusiasm, Calvin and Elizabeth contemplate the challenges of the regatta.
• Elizabeth heads to work early, leaving a note and breakfast for Calvin.
• Calvin reflects on Elizabeth's care for him and his own secret worries about her safety.
• Calvin receives troubling letters, one claiming to be from his mother and others demanding money or accusing him of theft.
• He laments the loss of a pen pal who stopped writing after Calvin expressed dark feelings about his father.
• Calvin decides to keep certain things, like his father grudge, secret from Elizabeth to avoid conflict.
• As Calvin prepares for a run to work, he considers how much he's changed for Elizabeth and how much he appreciates his current life.
• Before running to work with Six-Thirty, Calvin decides to use the leash due to the darkness and rain.
• Calvin clips the leash to Six-Thirty and locks the door, but he is dead within the next thirty-seven minutes.