Summary

In Chapter 29, Linda says she does not care about Shirin's ethnicity. She does not have money set aside for Ocean's college. Without a basketball scholarship, he will not get into a good school. She says if Shirin cares for Ocean, she will break up with him. She instructs Shirin not to tell Ocean about this conversation. Shirin hates that she has no power to do anything to affect Ocean's situation.

In Chapter 30, Shirin texts Ocean late that night, saying they need to talk. He seems to know something is wrong. He texts “no.” When she calls, he guesses his mother talked to her. Shirin says he can go back to being “normal.” Ocean objects and pleads. She hangs up, does not answer his calls, and cries herself to sleep.

In Chapter 31, Ocean texts constantly over the two-week winter break. Shirin reaches the point...