Chapter 39: Baz Decides to Move In With Simon
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Baz and Simon arrive at Baz's flat. Baz notices Fiona is home and acting strangely. She is standing awkwardly in front of her bedroom door, trying to appear casual. Baz points out she is hiding someone, which Fiona denies. Simon cowers behind Baz, nervous about Fiona's hostility. Fiona has been vaping, using a device that looks like a whistle. Baz criticizes her for vaping, calling it a yob's habit. Fiona deflects by accusing Baz of hiding Simon, which Baz does not deny. Simon tries to leave, but Baz pulls him inside. Baz then packs a garment bag and duffel to stay at Simon's flat. Simon asks if Baz needs his violin; Baz says to bring it in case of a violin emergency. Baz asks Simon if he is sure about this arrangement; Simon returns the question. Simon seems frustrated or angry, looking at the floor. Baz decides to empty his entire drawer of boxer briefs and pack heavily. He says, "I'm sure." When they exit, Fiona is still guarding her door. Baz announces he is staying with Simon. Fiona tells Simon to take care of Baz. Baz shouts a goodbye to Fiona's hidden guest.
Key Events
- Baz and Simon arrive at the flat and find Fiona in an unusual stance near her bedroom door.
- Fiona is caught vaping and trying to hide a man (presumably a Normal) in her room.
- Simon hides behind Baz and tries to back out of the flat, but Baz pulls him inside.
- Baz packs his belongings, including multiple shirts, jackets, trousers, and underwear, to move in with Simon.
- Simon handles Baz's violin case and asks if Baz still plays.
- The two have a tense exchange about whether they are both sure about the move.
- Baz declares he is sure and packs aggressively.
- Fiona emerges and Baz announces he is staying with Simon; Fiona gives a warning to Simon.
Character Development
- Baz: Shows vulnerability and determination. He is aware of Simon's uncertainty yet chooses to fully commit by packing all his clothes and essentials. His sarcastic humor remains (violin emergency, shouting at the hidden man), but his actions reveal a serious emotional investment. He also confronts Fiona's behavior directly, showing no fear.
- Simon: Portrayed as anxious and cowering. He initially hides behind Baz and tries to escape. When asked if he is sure, he deflects with a question, indicating he is not fully confident. His frustration or anger is hinted by his tongue in his cheek. He clings to Baz's violin, suggesting he seeks a connection or comfort.
- Fiona: Her demeanor is awkward and defensive. She lies about hiding a man, then deflects by accusing Baz of hiding Simon. Her vaping and defensiveness show her own flaws and hypocrisy. Yet she offers a protective warning to Simon, showing a grudging care for her nephew.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Commitment and Uncertainty: The central conflict is Baz's declaration of certainty versus Simon's visible doubt. The act of packing symbolizes Baz's readiness to invest fully, while Simon's hesitance and question ("Are you?") highlight the imbalance.
- Hiding and Exposure: Both Fiona and Baz are caught hiding people. Fiona hides a man; Baz has been hiding Simon in a broader sense. This chapter forces them to be open about their choices. The hidden man behind Fiona's door mirrors the hidden relationship between Baz and Simon.
- Family Tension: Fiona's antagonism and eventual directive to "take care of my nephew" reflect the complicated family dynamics. Baz's relationship with his aunt is strained, yet she still cares.
- Domesticity and Belonging: The act of packing clothes and moving a violin to Simon's flat suggests a blending of lives. Baz is not just visiting; he is moving in, which makes their relationship more real.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter is a pivotal moment in Baz and Simon's relationship. It marks the first physical move toward cohabitation, a major step in their partnership. Baz's deliberate packing and his blunt "I'm sure" show he is all in, despite Simon's insecurity. The parallel with Fiona's hidden Normal hints that hiding relationships is a family trait, and Baz is breaking that pattern by being open—at least with Simon. The chapter also deepens the ongoing tension between Baz and Fiona, reinforcing that their family is dysfunctional but not entirely hostile.
Study Questions
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Why does Baz pack so many clothes and empty his entire drawer?
Baz packs aggressively to demonstrate his commitment. He wants to show Simon that he is fully moving in, not just visiting. The decision to take almost everything indicates he is making a true home with Simon, not a temporary stay. -
What does Simon's handling of the violin case reveal about his state of mind?
Simon picks up the violin case and asks if Baz still needs it. This suggests he is searching for a connection to Baz's life and wants something to hold onto. His discomfort and embarrassment hint that he is not sure how to act during this major transition. -
How does Fiona's behavior in this chapter mirror Baz's own situation?
Fiona is hiding a man (likely a Normal) behind her bedroom door and vaping, both of which are secrets. Baz has been hiding his relationship with Simon and his magical identity from Normals. The parallel shows that both Baz and his aunt struggle with openness, but Baz is now choosing transparency with Simon.