The next day, Alec enters the gym with newfound pride. The previous day, he’d gone over the application with Mrs. Case, who was skeptical about the club’s name but nonetheless approved it. She made sure to direct Alec’s attention to the open house presentation, adding that she’s excited to have a book club this year.

Alec goes to the table in the far corner now designated for the Losers Club. He takes a seat close to the wall so he can watch the faces of the other kids as they read the name of the club. He pulls out The High King. Before he begins reading, he glances at the Active Games group and feels bad about Dave being caught in the middle between him and Kent. Alec also thinks about the letter Mrs. Vance is sending home. He knows it will likely arrive today, and he’s worried about how his parents will respond.

Alec pushes this out of his mind and begins reading. After about 10 minutes, he notices Nina coming toward the table. She smiles at him when she sees the label for the Losers Club.