Fighting Words

At school the next day, Della misses recess to review her failed math quiz with Ms. Davonte. Ms. Davonte also gives her a note from Francine, telling Della to take the bus to the after-school program at the local YMCA. Della vaguely recalls Francine and Suki discussing Della’s after school plans that weekend but has never been to the Y before. Nevaeh tells her that she attends the after-school program too, which makes Della feel better even though she would rather stay home by herself or with Suki.

After school, Della arrives at the Y. One of the counselors goes over the activity options with Della, none of which she has ever tried before. Nevaeh calls Della over to her table, where she sits with a few other girls from class, one of whom is named Luisa. Della pulls out her math quiz to begin correcting it and Nevaeh tries to help despite Della’s protests. Della finally crumples up the quiz and throws it across the room in anger. Nevaeh apologizes, saying that she was only trying to help.

Recreation time begins and Nevaeh invites Della to come swimming with them, but Della does not have a swimsuit.