Later that day, Willodeen and Connor go to an emergency meeting called by the council to discuss the fire. While they wait to go in, Connor reminds Willodeen that school is starting again soon and hints that it would be more fun if she were there. Willodeen is not a big fan of school and doesn’t commit but decides to think about it. When it’s time to go into the meeting, Connor asks Willodeen if she’s ready. She surprises herself by saying “I think I am” (229).

The meeting is different from the previous one Willodeen attended. Instead of anger and arguing, people wait their turn to speak and offer suggestions rather than blame. There are tears and gratitude, and it seems the fire “left most people feeling grateful and humbled” (232).

Willodeen goes last and explains the connection between the screechers, blue willows, and hummingbears. People are unwilling to listen until Mae and Birdie demand they give Willodeen their attention. Willodeen tells the crowd that it would take time to restore the blue willows and hummingbears and that it may be years before they can have a real fair to celebrate the hummingbear nests.