Summary

In Chapter 20, Obie meets up with Charlie. They are both excited. Obie realizes they “don’t know that much about each other” (192). Remembering Jae-sung’s advice, Obie asks Charlie about herself instead of just talking about himself. Charlie reveals that she is often anxious and nervous, which surprises Obie.

Obie and Charlie “spend nearly three hours talking” (196). Obie walks Charlie home and kisses her at the door. Obie is so excited, he texts Pooch about the kiss and tells Jae-sung at home. He and Charlie text and make plans for a second date.

In Chapter 21, Obie meets with Mrs. Salmani about his most recent essay. Proud of the work he has done, she urges him to submit the piece to “an online essay contest” hosted by “the National Council of Teachers of English” (204). She insists his essay is “one of the most powerful...