Chapter 3 Summary

In school, Mr. Sobel, the science teacher, informs the students all about radioactive materials. Nyle reflects on how much better science class was when it was just text in a book and not material that the children experienced firsthand. Back at home, Nyle thinks about the boy in the back bedroom downstairs who is sick from the radiation. Nyle feels her protective mask and ponders how it could possibly protect her from that which one cannot feel, see or smell.

Nyle realizes that she has not used the bathroom since she left school, and she is unable to hold it any longer. She goes downstairs. After leaving the bathroom, she cannot help but notice that the back bedroom door is open. An irresistible urge draws her toward the bedroom. Inside she sees what must be Mrs. Trent lying on the cot with blankets...