Count Me In

Karina’s best friend, Ashley, comes over and braids her hair. They take photos of themselves, eat snacks, and chat. Ashley asks Karina about Papa’s tutoring work and the friends discuss his and Chris’s new friendship: Karina tries to avoid Chris when he comes over although she’s been trying to let go of what happened last year. Ashley suggests that Chris might not be as bad as he first seemed. While she braids Karina’s hair, Karina stares at the valentine on the wall that Ashley made her years ago. She and Ashley have been best friends ever since Ashley gave her the construction paper tree covered with heart-shaped leaves.

Chris continues working with Mr. C. He loves Mr. C’s tutoring methods and is continuing to improve in math. Mr. C gives Chris treats and makes him laugh. One day, they take a break during their session to watch old basketball videos online. Chris is surprised when Karina joins them and chats about the videos, too. He’s even more surprised when she asks for his help with her photo competition before he leaves for the afternoon. She wants his opinion on which photo to choose for the gallery’s contest on the theme of home.