Bobby is nervous to give the speech on Thursday. From Tuesday evening, all through Wednesday, Bobby explains, “[A]ll that occupies my mind is the mess I have gotten myself into by agreeing to give this speech” (237). Bobby’s dad tells him that he is coming to the school on Tuesday to hear Bobby give his speech. His dad also says he will chaperone the middle school dance Friday evening. Bobby is nervous for his dad to chaperone the dance. Bobby imagines Joe and Kelsey will be dancing together, while he, Skeezie, and Addie will be standing off to the side, feeling bad.

Thursday morning, Bobby assures his dad he does not need to come hear Bobby give his speech. Bobby’s dad explains, “‘It took becoming a father myself to finally get it. You can’t help wanting to cheer your children on, kiddo. That’s what being a dad is all about. So I will be there today and I will be cheering for you’” (242).

Bobby describes his morning classes as, “One big blur” (243). Finally, the students running for student council are called to the auditorium to prepare for their speeches. Addie, Bobby, Skeezie, and Joe all go to the auditorium.