Julia returns to Chicago, and Amá is happy to hear that she enjoyed her time in Mexico. While she was gone, Mr. Ingman called Amá to express his concern about Julia’s absence, stressing that Julia was his best student. Amá apologizes for blaming Julia for Olga’s death and reassures her that all she has ever wanted was to protect Julia: “I’m ignorant, mija [...]There are so many different things I don’t know. I wish things were different. I know you hate me, but I love you with all my heart” (283).

The secret of Amá’s assault torments Julia, but she does not think she will ever be able to talk to Amá about it. Julia is finally able to call Connor, who has left her many concerned messages while she was away. They reconnect and decide to see each other again so that Julia can explain everything that has happened in her absence. 

Julia puts more effort into her relationship with Amá and attends the weekly prayer group with her. Group members share their difficult reasons for being there and hearing all the hardships take an emotional toll on Julia. Amá talks about losing Olga and how she struggles in her relationship with Julia.