Summary

The novel shifts to September 5, 2013. It is Edward’s first day of school following the plane crash. Up until the crash, he was homeschooled by his father. Edward has chosen to attend the local public school in West Milford, as he wants to be in class with Shay. The school’s principal—Principal Arundhi—meets privately with Edward to welcome him and to state that Edward can come to him if he ever has any problem at the school. Principal Arundhi tends to a small garden next to the school, and Edward agrees to be one of Arundhi’s student helpers regarding the garden. When school lets out, many people from the town arrive to watch Edward leave. Edward feels uncomfortable and scrutinized. Edward asks John to monitor news and internet coverage about Edward and to tell him the general details. John agrees, but...