Alice accepts a last-minute babysitting job for a neighbor after Jan cancels. However, Jan arrives after the baby’s parents depart, high on marijuana. When Jan becomes unreasonably loud and belligerent, Alice calls Jan’s parents, who beg Alice not to tell Jan’s parole officer. Alice worries that she made a mistake by notifying Jan’s parents.

Jan bullies Alice at school, calling her names and threatening to introduce Ted and Alex to drugs. She spreads rumors about her, and the other kids at school begin taunting Alice. Someone slips a burning marijuana joint into her locker; luckily, the principal believes that Alice is the target of bullying. Alice refuses to turn in the bullies, fearing further retribution. Her relationship with Joel suffers, though she still has strong feelings for him. Alice wishes Joel could have been her father’s son since he’s responsible and disciplined.

After a brief illness, Gran dies in her sleep. Alice feels disturbed, especially when she imagines Gran’s body being devoured by worms and maggots, an image she can’t shake. Joel comforts her when he visits her after Gran’s funeral. He talks with Alice about death and religion; Joe is more spiritual. While Alice appreciates her relationship with Joel, she often feels lonely because she has no other friends.