As the end of the vacation draws near, Nic grows more agitated. He writes that “[t]here’s an overwhelming sense of sadness and depression taking hold of [him]” (202). Nic attributes this to his consistent desire to be a part of “this wonderful family my dad has created with Karen” (202). He struggles between the desire to distance himself and pretend that he shuns his dad’s new family, which he deems “cutesy” and “overprotected.” However, Nic does feel that he is able to cope better than usual, and he wonders whether his medication may be the reason. The night before he departs, he and his family have a moment of reconciliation.

Weeks later, Nic is doing well and following his usual routine: riding his bike, working at the salon, and writing. He is especially excited when an editor from Nerve.com writes to tell him that they enjoyed and want to publish his review. They invite him to submit another. Nic also receives an e-mail from Zelda saying that she broke up with her boyfriend and has been thinking about him. Despite all of his apprehension, Nic phones Zelda and sets up a meeting with her.