Larry

Larry, the man entrusted with Mary's dental care, is not just her dentist but a lifelong friend. Never having left their hometown, he embodies tranquility and simplicity. A gentle soul by nature, Larry is quite satisfied with his life, which includes running his own dental practice, owning a cozy home, and driving a reliable truck. In stark contrast to Stephen's hurried pace, Larry exudes a calm and laid-back demeanor. Despite his sensitivity to Mary's feelings and his desire to bring her joy, he harbors the belief that he might bore her. Though he confesses to Mary his wish for her to stay instead of relocating to Louisville, his hope is tinged with doubt.

Mary

Mary, our storyteller, opens the narrative with the revelation of having taken a lover. Her journey back to Kentucky three years prior was prompted by the need to care for her ailing parents. Since then, she has married Stephen, while her parents have retired to the warmth of Florida. Mary stands at a crossroads, uncertain of her heart's true desires. Although she entertains visions of a life settled on the farm, the land is on the brink of being sold. Meanwhile, Stephen seeks out a new abode in Louisville. During his absence, Mary embarks on an affair with Larry, her trusted dentist, leaving her ensnared in a web of indecision. Caught between the allure of Larry and the prospect of a new life with Stephen, she lingers in anticipation of a sign to guide her choice.

Mary Sue

See Mary

Stephen

Stephen, Mary's husband, is a man driven by ambition, having originally ventured into Kentucky to sell word processors. At the story's outset, he finds himself in Louisville, house hunting for their future together. Though a salesman by trade, he struggles to convince Mary of the bright future he envisions. His understanding of Mary's needs remains elusive, often prescribing how she ought to feel. Dismissing her ties to her familial home as "provincial," he advocates for greater "flexibility," urging her to embrace change.