How we cite our quotes: (Paragraph)
Quote #7
On the eve of Forstmann's departure they were playing cards on the veranda, as they usually did in the evening. Suddenly, Olga felt an impossible spasm in her throat. She still managed to smile and to leave without undue haste. Vera knocked on her door but she did not open. In the middle of the night, having swatted a multitude of sleepy flies and smoked continuously to the point where she was no longer able to inhale, irritated, depressed, hating herself and everyone, Olga went into the garden. (15)
Um, we know that blind dates don't always turn out great, but that's not a good reason to lock yourself in your room and smoke until you can't breathe anymore. Deep breaths, Olga.
Quote #8
Early in the morning, she came out again and sat down on the porch step that was already hot. Forstmann, wearing a dark blue bathrobe, sat next to her and, clearing his throat, asked if she would consent to become his spouse—that was the very word he used: "spouse." (16)
Even though we should be happy for Olga, after all that fussing she did and Forstmann's awkwardness here it's hard to think that things can go well for her. Call us old fashioned, but consent and spouse don't exactly scream romance and happy endings to us.