The Fourth Stall

Mac tells his parents that his injuries occurred when he tried a foolish bike stunt, and they believe him. Vince is at Mac’s house to explain about the stolen money. He tells Mac that his mother recently lost her job and cannot find another; she grudgingly allows Vince’s older brother to help out, and Vince also felt obligated to do so. He placed the petty cash in her purse and dresser randomly for her to find. He says that he could not address it directly with Mac and could not explain when confronted earlier that day because he is very embarrassed about the whole situation. Again, he mentions that Mac cannot know what it is like not to have enough money for food and clothes.

Mac initially seems sympathetic: “I’m sorry, Vince. You’re right. But you should know you don’t have to be embarrassed. You’re my best friend and my business partner. I’ve got your back no matter what. We could’ve worked something out” (205). Soon, though, their discussion turns to the complete disaster at the shed after school, and Mac grows frustrated and snappish. He says the situation puts Vince in a suspicious light because he was the only one not in attendance.