Dennis Richland is the main character of this story. In the first chapter, he has mixed results trying to charm women at college, but succeeds in seducing Mabel. They begin a passionate relationship. Dennis also discovers a talent for guitar and decides to start a band. He meets another musically gifted student, Michael, who agrees to be the bassist. Dennis continues developing his music skills and attracting female fans, collecting their phone numbers. He sees an unusual pale woman at a night club and feels nervous but approaches her anyway.