The narrator, Tony Webster, a retired man in his 60s, reflects on his past. Introspective and nostalgic, he is prone to reminiscing about his youth, his first love, Veronica Ford, and his enigmatic and intellectually gifted schoolmate Adrian.

Tony recounts his youth in the 1960s, particularly his friendship with Adrian and their school experiences. Tony is an average student, while Adrian stands out as brilliant and philosophical. Their friend group includes Colin and Alex, who are less academically inclined.

During their school years, Veronica joins their group, and Tony becomes infatuated with her. They begin dating. He visits her upper-middle-class family, finding her brother, Jack, judgmental of his lower-middle-class status. When Veronica eventually starts a relationship with Adrian, Tony feels slighted and rejected.

After finishing school, the friends go their separate ways. Tony attends university while Adrian goes to Cambridge. Tony and Veronica break up. Down the line, Adrian sends Tony a letter saying that he is dating Veronica, and asking if Tony is okay with it. Tony sends back a cavalier postcard. He then sends a letter advising Adrian that he should be “prudent” because Veronica has “damage.” After losing touch with Adrian and Veronica, Tony becomes romantically involved with another woman, Margaret.