Chapters 23 - 25: Heartache, Home, Flying Summary

In the final section of the novel, Delrita retreats fully into her invisible shell, refusing to accept Tree's apology in the hallway and refusing to bond with the other girls in gym class over softball. She feels totally alone, and as if she complete deserves the isolation. Around Thanksgiving, Delrita is shocked to receive the news that Punky has had another heart attack. Along with Uncle Bert and Aunt Queenie, she races to the hospital to be at his bedside. Punky begs to be taken back to his own home - and for the first time, he means Bert and Queenie's home - but the doctors say it's impossible; his heart is too weak. A few days later, the doctor tells Delrita and her family that Punky is being moved out of the intensive care...