Ugh, I hate not having my laptop near, right now. Fantastic chapter for comparative analysis!
Two households, one warm and cosy...the other cold like a "tomb". Two receptions - again, one warm and welcome...the other cold, arrogant, hostile. But than, two guys... Brad is oblivious, friendly, charming, but not much perceptive while Alexander...he's...he's everything. He stays with his arrogant grandfather just to spend holiday with Lyn. He confronts old man. He notices what Lyn likes and buys a present. He asks Lyn to put a friendship bracelet on his hand. He charish touch. Touch of the fingers which was more erotic than Brad cleaning the snow from Lyn's body (though, Lyn might not agree with me, yet)!
Brad forgets the present and makes fun of Lyn's...putting it on (himself), just out of politeness! He was unaware that this is personal moment of fondness between two friends (even more for Lyn), braking any intimacy by bringing in Alexander in the conversation. Seems to me, he is not doing it because he cares too much about Alexaner's feelings, but he escapes any stronger emotional conection between him and Lyn. Oh, if I could only have a peek in Brad's subconsciousness right now! ๐
Btw, I must share this with you... I've seen the restorant on the beach, exectly like one in the story. Exclusive, but people sitting in the sand! I was laughing immagining furious Alexanded walking in a shoes on the sand and Lyn avoiding to admit he was stupid about it!!!