7.06

Brian and the protagonist contemplate discussing the “favor” but decide to postpone it due to the lack of privacy. They disembark at an unfamiliar mall, where Brian intends to buy bus tickets and breakfast supplies, while the protagonist needs a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a book. They encounter a crowd gathered around an electronics store, observing news coverage about the recent exposure of Empire Eighty-Eight members’ identities. Brian suggests they inform Lisa about the news update.

The protagonist reflects on the boss’s strategy of controlled chaos, acknowledging its effectiveness despite crossing a line. They part ways with Brian, heading to a disorganized used bookstore. The protagonist finds a book on dog psychology, hoping to gain insights into interacting with Bitch, and another on tailoring. She is suddenly attacked by Sophia, who violently grabs her ear and slams her face against a pile of books.

Sophia reveals her motive: she hates losing, especially to someone like the protagonist, who she sees as beneath her. Sophia also resents the protagonist for getting her suspended from the track team. The protagonist defends herself, arguing that she reported Sophia’s bullying because it was the right thing to do. She also reveals that it was Emma’s father, not her, who initiated the meeting at school.

Despite the pain, the protagonist feels a sense of control, having dealt with more serious fights before. Brian intervenes, and Sophia accuses the protagonist of cheating and theft, prompting a confrontation with the bookstore owner. After Sophia escapes, Brian and the protagonist leave the mall. The protagonist asks about the severity of her injuries, and Brian confirms she needs stitches for her ear. She declines to press charges.

The protagonist reveals that she kissed Brian partly for Sophia’s benefit and partly because she likes him. She lists the reasons for her attraction: his looks, personality, intelligence, and confidence. Brian apologizes for giving the wrong impression, explaining his inexperience with relationships. He clarifies that he sees her as a friend, akin to a sister, and any perceived signals were unintentional.

The protagonist, heartbroken, asks Brian to stop. They walk back to his apartment in awkward silence, with the TV providing background noise. A news update on the Empire Eighty-Eight situation catches their attention, indicating the group’s response to the email. The protagonist realizes that Kaiser’s people are making their move. The chapter ends with the protagonist processing the events and the news update.