When the group arrives in Anaheim, no one is waiting for them at the airport. This is odd, but nothing can prepare them for what’s awaiting them. On their way back to the Calivista, they see the street has undergone a major change: “The Topaz and the Lagoon [are] gone—they’d turned into one giant motel, called the Magna” (133). The Magna, via a huge sign, claims to be the cheapest motel in town.

Back at the Calivista, Mrs. Garcia scrubs towels by hand. The agency Mrs. Davis works under has been hired by the Magna. The contract states that the agency is not allowed to hire out the workers to any other motels in the area. Mia takes in the sight, stunned at how bad things have gotten. Leaves fill the pool, the neon sign is broken, and most startling, the parking lot is empty.

Mia is relieved to see Lupe at the motel and rushes to catch up with her. Lupe tells Mia that she tested into geometry and English literature. Unfortunately, as a result, she’ll start her school days at the high school now, leaving them with even less time together.