Mason has a “mixed-up” (287) day at school. He misses Calvin and his newly clean carpet at the crumbledown. He reports the news about Calvin to Ms. Blinny, who also asks about the lieutenant. Mason tells her he hasn’t shared the news yet. On the bus, Matt Drinker bullies Mason about his sweat. Mason is embarrassed and worried his sweat will stop Mrs. Drinker from allowing him to watch Moonie again. At the bus stop, the bullies pelt Mason with lacrosse balls, but he turns to catch one in his hand. He shows it to the boys, who just stare at him. He puts it down beside him and walks home, feeling like he has bested them, for once. Grandma tells Mason to help Mrs. Drinker get the dog food down in the garage. He goes over quickly, so he can focus on Lt. Baird. 

In the garage, Mason is alone. He climbs up the ladder quickly to get the bag of dog food down. Soon after, Matt, Lance, and Corey come in looking for sports equipment. Matt seems nervous about Mason being up on the ladder.