The opening quote comes from Ronna: “Break up? We didn’t break up. He gave me away” (158).

Following Rob’s plan, Young calls Debbie. They rent a movie, go back to her house, and make out. However, “Making feeble excuses, I turned her down. I could be a shit but not a slut. Besides, I knew that Debbie would tell all her friends that we had made it. Debbie prized prowess over reputation” (158). Young leaves feeling guilty, knowing that Ronna will hear about his cheating as soon as she gets back to town.

Ronna shows up at Young’s house. They go to the garden and she says that she knows about him and Debbie. She says, “I can’t figure it out, Young. We had that. Sex, I mean, and I thought it was special, just us, you know? Why would you want someone else? And of all the someone elses, why Debbie Mahon? It seems beneath you?” (160). Young realizes he can’t lie to Ronna and he comes clean to her regarding Rob’s plan. Ronna is clearly upset and wants him to choose between her and Rob’s game. He takes too long to answer, and she says, “Don’t worry, Young.