Georgie is so distressed about his rosebush that he refuses to eat. Sister Mary Angela suggests several unique places he can plant the rosebush and even offers him and Timothy a chance to grow their garden. Despite Timothy’s protests, Georgie visits the home across the street to ask if he can plant the rosebush in their garden. Georgie knocks on the door, and the housekeeper, Rosita, explains that Georgie can’t speak with Mrs. Harper because she is still sad over losing her son. She offers Georgie a cupcake, which he declines. Rosita says he can visit Hugh Collier, Mrs. Harper’s father. Mr. Collier is on the porch with a small boy named Robin, who has developmental delays. Georgie empathizes with Robin and explains to Mr. Collier that he struggles with learning and can’t read. Mr. Collier sees Georgie’s wounds and recognizes that someone hurt him, but Georgie lies about his scars. Mr. Collier kindly tells Georgie that he can’t plant the rosebush on their property. Georgie becomes angry and, through tears, calls him “a dumb old bastard” (65) before running back to the school.

Georgie skips dinner and vespers and refuses to tell Timothy where he went.