The Burkes’ home is filled with people Jess doesn’t recognize. When Leslie’s grandmother meets Jess, she bursts into tears. Jess realizes that his classmates will now treat him differently. He thinks that even his mom will make his sisters treat him kindly. He wonders if Leslie will be buried in the same dress she wore on Easter, hoping that she does not wear pants so that others will not make fun of her. Bill Burke wraps Jess in a hug, crying and thanking him. Jess pulls away, feeling awkward. When Mr. Aarons asks about the funeral service plans, Jess is disturbed to hear that Leslie will be cremated, realizing he will never see her body again. At first, Jess is angry that he was not consulted since “Leslie belonged to him” (145) more than anyone else. He feels angry at the Burkes for moving to Lark County in the first place. He is also angry at Leslie for leaving him alone just as he started to change into a new person. He finds himself running home, sobbing.

At home, May Belle asks if Jess got a glimpse of Leslie’s body. Jess smacks her across the face. As he runs to the creek, Jess thinks that he is finally the fastest kid in the fifth grade.