Summary

“In desperate, shaky need of decompression” (251), Noelle and Zee grab dinner together after witnessing Shara give birth. Throughout their conversation, Zee learns that Shara has a broken family and will likely not return to school. Noelle mentions that she will hold a meeting with the staff in order to better prepare them to look for warning signs in these types of incidents and Zee feels guilty for not recognizing that Shara was pregnant due to the bulky coat that she wore to class.

Noelle points out that the bulky coat in itself was a warning sign. This comment prompts Zee to confront Noelle about her clear dislike of her. Noelle explains that her disdain is not personal, she is simply disappointed with Teach and Reach for sending unqualified and inexperienced teachers, like Zee, to work at her school.

Noelle’s honesty lends to...