Summary

In Chapter 21, Maddie and David visit Dr. Hale’s office. He jokingly asks whether David’s “emergency” has anything to do with courting Maddie (219). David says Maddie witnessed him having an asthma attack the other night and insisted he come to see Dr. Hale.

After Dr. Hale examines David, David asks him about a rumor that he heard regarding the dangers of smoking while pregnant. David asks whether he has asthma because his mother smoked too much. Dr. Hale quickly assures him that this is not the case. Dr. Hale hands them a journal featuring a study that proves nicotine and mint are soothing to mothers. Maddie feels relieved and accidentally says that she feels silly for worrying about his letter to Mr. Winston.

Dr. Hale asks David to walk his secretary, Lucille, to the bus stop while he chats with Maddie...