“She doesn’t fall apart over really important things and I’m always afraid I might.”

Katherine reflects on the differences between herself and her best friend, Erica. Katherine claims that Erica does not easily fall apart or become emotional about things, while Katherine believes herself to be always on the verge of being upset. Katherine proves this to be false about herself throughout the text, as she navigates the complexities of beginning a serious sexual relationship with Michael with maturity. Katherine remains firm in her resolve and values, does not let Michael push the boundaries of what she is comfortable with, and even manages to end her relationship with Michael in an undramatic fashion. Katherine shows that she is not as prone to falling apart as she initially believes herself to be, an indication that she has grown.

“As I opened the car door all I could think of to say was, ‘See you…’ but that wasn’t at all what I meant.” 

After their first car ride, Katherine finds herself attracted to Michael but still unable to articulate her feelings to him. She struggles to say what she really means, which is that she wants to see him again, but instead is vague and noncommittal. As her relationship with Michael grows, Katherine learns how to articulate how she really feels and becomes comfortable expressing her true feelings to Michael.