Summary

In Chapter 10, as she walks to the unveiling, Tierney finds a pearl that June placed in her cloak for good luck. Tierney’s father then gives her the flower chosen by her suitor; it is a gardenia, which symbolizes purity and secret love.

Tierney sees Mr. Fallow and fears he is the one who chose her. Instead, Mr. Fallow lifts Gertrude’s veil. When Tierney’s veil is raised, she sees Michael. Confused, she sees that Tommy has chosen Kiersten. Michael tries to say he loves Tierney, but she is too upset to listen.

The grace year girls from last year return, and they are weary and wounded. As Kiersten walks by and harshly elbows Tierney, she realizes Michael’s proposal has made her a target. Tierney and the other new grace girls leave the town.

In Chapter 11, Tierney enters the outskirts...