What Happens

KB, hurt and confused by the assault, returns home and is greeted by an empty house. The solitude emphasizes her longing for companionship. Reflecting on her failed attempts to improve her family's situation in Lansing, KB realizes her efforts have only made things worse. Later, it is Nia's birthday, KB hides her turmoil behind a forced smile and wishes her sister well. Granddaddy returns early from his fishing trip, not wanting to miss Nia's birthday.

Things continue to go badly for KB when she returns Charlotte’s bike. Charlotte and Bobby’s mother angrily accuses KB of stealing it and hurls racist accusations at her. The children, who KB thought were her friends, refuse to defend her. Hurt, KB realizes that:

They been wearing masks the whole time, so that they looked like my friends. But now they momma ripped the masks off, so all three of ‘em are exactly who they are, plain.

Nia celebrates her birthday with friends, leaving KB and Granddaddy to explore Bible study. Nia returns in tears, confronting Granddaddy about losing the house due to Daddy’s addiction. KB comforts her, emphasizing the strength in supporting each other during tough times. Nia painfully recounts the time she confronted Daddy about his drug habit and he hit her. Although this is an incredibly painful moment to rehash, telling it serves to bring the sisters closer together. They remember that they can and need to trust each other, learning that “we might not be the perfect family, but we the kind of family that’s gon’ be there when you need ‘em.”

With that in mind, KB tells Nia about what happened with Rondell the previous day. They go on to have an emotional talk about remembering their father—the good and the bad—and why KB never wants to forget him. KB realizes that, even though she has lost so much, she still has Nia and thinks to herself,

It’s like I’m standing in a field full of fireflies, struggling to catch ‘em all, when really, I just gotta slow down and catch one. 

Why it Matters

KB's emotional journey takes center stage in this chapter. After a traumatic assault and the confrontation over the bicycle, she is exceedingly sensitive and vulnerable. The subsequent heartfelt conversation between Nia and KB becomes the chapter's core, showcasing their growing sisterly bond as they affirm their commitment to supporting each other. This chapter underscores the theme of family strength amid adversity, as KB shifts from isolation to finding solace and resilience in her connections with Nia.