Practice and studying consume Melody’s life over the next two weeks. She is one of the six highest scorers in her class, qualifying for one of the on-air contestant spots. Surprisingly, Molly scores higher than Claire and also makes the team; Claire becomes an alternate and loudly protests how unfair it is, as she helped Molly study for the practice test.

At home, Melody begins to pack for the trip. She includes some of the new outfits her mother purchased for her at the mall the day before. Melody also bought two cards while there, one for Mrs. V and one for Catherine. Mrs. Brooks is proud that Melody has exhibited such thoughtfulness on her own. Mrs. V comes over to help double check that everything needed has been put in the suitcases. Penny and Butterscotch will be staying with her while the Brookses travel to Washington.

Melody gives Mrs. V the thank you card, and Mrs. V tears up. Mrs. Brooks reviews the flight times, and Mrs. V wonders why the school booked tickets to Washington on a noon flight. They will get in around two o’clock for a competition that begins at seven o’clock ; Mrs.