Chapter 13 Summary

Returning to Los Angeles, Arturo is very afraid of falling buildings and admits to himself he is a coward. He is sure these buildings are going to eventually fall down and kill people and is traumatized by his experience. However, he begins telling fantastical stories about being in the quake and watching the dead being taken out; stories about his courage in the face of crisis, and his daring rescue of victims from the rubble. Arturo does not care whether people believe him or not. He tells Hellfrick he was caught at the top of a Ferris wheel with a girl when the quake hit. After inspecting his own room, Hellfrick's room and the building for cracks, Arturo sleeps outside on the ground, convinced that Los Angeles is doomed.

Arturo begins attending mass, gives money to the church, quits smoking and sends his...