Before leaving for Christmas, Dante hangs Emma’s painting in Ari’s bedroom. Dante admires Emma’s son for his artwork and for “speaking for us all” (236). Dante tells Ari he is brave for wanting to see his brother. Ari does not feel brave but rather tired of being afraid.

When Dante leaves for Christmas, Gina and Susie gift Ari a silver cross on a silver chain. In a note, they tell him that they don’t want him to think that God hates him, because they do not believe that he does. The necklace will serve as a reminder that he is not alone. When Ari puts the necklace on, he knows that he will never take it off.

Ari writes a journal entry and decides, “I don’t feel that loneliness when I’m alone anymore” (238). He is getting more and more comfortable with the person he is becoming. Looking ahead to the new year, Ari feels hopeful that things will get better, for himself and for the world.

Ari starts a journal entry before realizing he has nothing to say. Lilly walks into the kitchen and asks Ari if he is nervous about seeing Bernardo; he admits that he is feeling anxious.