Summary

In Chapter 24, Rakhi goes to Alex’s to work on college applications while the Motianis are away. Although the place had negative associations, once inside, Rakhi realizes she needs “to start a new life” (250).

The friends spend the night working on the applications. Babloo calls Alex. When he hears Rakhi is there, he asks to speak with her. He warns her about “spending time alone” with Alex, insisting she is “not from his world” and cannot trust him (253).

Alex tells Rakhi that when he is with her he does not “feel like such an outsider” (255). They continue discussing their lives and pasts. Alex’s words excite Rakhi.

Rakhi and Babloo bought kerosene and lit the vendor’s stall on fire. The vendor returned and was caught in the flames. Seeing the burning man, Rakhi felt “too stunned to move” (260).

In Chapter 25, Rakhi...