In this chapter, Notch reflects on a significant event from September 1979. Sec and Walter, try to lift his spirits by inviting him to watch the film "Apocalypse Now" at the Ziegfeld Theatre. Notch, initially reluctant, agrees to go because of his admiration for Marlon Brando, who stars in the film. The movie brings back memories of the Vietnam War, and Notch shares his thoughts on the film's inaccuracies and its impact on him. He recalls his experiences with MACV-SOG soldiers and various operations he participated in during the war. He also observes the reactions of other veterans in the audience, noting their shared understanding and unspoken bond. The chapter ends with Notch reflecting on the film's portrayal of the war and its effect on him, as well as his enjoyment of people-watching during the movie.

Chapter 41, "THEN: L'ANGE VENGEUR DE LA JUSTICE":

In this chapter, Notch follows his handler Sec's advice and spends a week and a half in Montreal. Although Montreal is known for its beautiful prostitutes, Notch isn’t there for pleasure. Instead, he spends his time eliminating criminals such as pimps, pushers, and other scum from the streets of Montreal. During this period, he kills 14 individuals, earning the nickname "L'ange vengeur de la justice" (The Avenging Angel of Justice) from The Montreal Star.

After his spree in Montreal, he takes a three-month break from work. However, he struggles with his mental state, drinking heavily and engaging in self-destructive behavior. He reflects on his past actions and the emotional toll of his profession, particularly the incident where he let Osborne Whyte go, which marked the beginning of his internal conflict. He grapples with the idea of living a normal life, falling in love, and having a family, but ultimately realizes that the dark abyss of his profession is permanently bound to his soul.

This chapter delves into Notch’s internal struggles and the moral complexities of his profession, highlighting the fine line between professional detachment and the emotional toll of taking lives. It provides a gritty and introspective look into the life of a contract killer, emphasizing the constant danger and the psychological impact of the job.

Chapter 40, "THEN: HOME IS WHERE THE HIT IS-WASTE MANAGEMENT":

In this chapter, Notch recounts a contract he took on for a crime family to eliminate a drug dealer in New Jersey. The hitman describes the meticulous planning and execution of the hit, including the elimination of the drug dealer's bodyguards and a Doberman that attacked him. He reflects on the challenges and dangers of his profession, particularly the issue of collateral damage, which often includes killing dogs and sometimes innocent bystanders.

Notch also shares a conversation with his handler, Sec, who expresses concern over the excessive violence and the potential repercussions from the powerful crime family. Despite the successful completion of the hit, Notch is warned to lay low and avoid further work with the Cosa Nostra due to the heat generated by the collateral damage.

The chapter delves into the hitman's internal struggles and the moral complexities of his profession, highlighting the fine line between professional detachment and the emotional toll of taking lives. It provides a gritty and introspective look into the life of a contract killer, emphasizing the constant danger and the psychological impact of the job.