Summary
Highlights
Bobby visits, bringing hero sandwich coupons and news of a tree planting in memory of Pauline at the school, potentially for Otis as well. He also informs the protagonist about a 5 PM ceremony at the river, organized by the El Camino kids, where flowers will be placed on the Toadstool as a farewell.
The protagonist, Alex, and their mom gather flowers, including prize yellow roses, and head to the river. Along the way, they encounter Isabel and Jill, who share memories of Pauline. Hannah joins them, bringing a unique shell. The beach is filled with kids, news reporters, and adults like Mrs. Manuel and Miss Diaz.
A moment of tension arises when Alex, sensing the protagonist's discomfort, hints at holding power over him. The protagonist feels a sense of dread and hopelessness, wondering if their secret will soon be revealed. He considers running away.
The kids place their offerings, including pom-poms, shells, and flowers, into Sim Corona's inflatable boat. Stacey O'Neill brings a large wreath. Sim and his dad row the boat to the Toadstool, where Sim climbs up to unload the flowers, including a framed photograph of Pauline.
As Sim returns to shore, Hannah expresses her sorrow, questioning how the protagonist can stand to watch. Suddenly, officers Raul and Sam Allen Ferguson arrive, indicating a new development. Their hushed conversation leads to all the news reporters following them, creating a murmur in the crowd.
The murmur in the crowd quickly spreads the shocking news: Otis has been found. The chapter ends on this cliffhanger, leaving the nature of Otis's discovery unrevealed.