Chapter XXV opens with Mibs and Bobbi preparing to change into their swimsuits by the pool, marking the beginning of a pivotal moment in the story. Mibs, usually a confident individual, is taken aback by the poor fit of her swimsuit, which makes her feel self-conscious and vulnerable. This is a sharp contrast to the more self-assured character she has been before. Bobbi, on the other hand, steps in as a comforting presence, exuding a grown-up confidence in her cherry red bikini. She helps Mibs adjust the straps of her purple one-piece swimsuit, offering both practical assistance and emotional support, which has a noticeable effect on Mibs, boosting her confidence and helping her feel a bit better about her appearance. Bobbi’s encouragement is exactly what Mibs needs to regain some sense of control and comfort in a moment where she felt exposed.

Once they manage to get dressed, the girls make their way outside to join the boys, Will and Fish, near the pool. The scene that unfolds is vibrant, with the pool area described as a mix of charm and chaotic energy. Will is already in the water, swimming effortlessly, while Fish stands off to the side, preparing himself for what might be a more cautious dive into the pool. The mood lightens as the boys start a playful water fight, exchanging playful insults and laughter. In the midst of this playful chaos, Will unexpectedly kisses Mibs, causing her to feel flustered and confused. This kiss, unexpected and spontaneous, adds a layer of complexity to Mibs’s growing emotions. Fish, seeing this interaction, steps in with a warning to Will about how he should behave around Mibs, causing the group to shift into a slightly more serious dynamic, even though the fun continues. The complexity of emotions that begins to surface in Mibs further enriches the moment, leaving her unsure about how to process the sudden affection she has just experienced.

As the boys continue their water games, Mibs finds herself caught in a whirlwind of emotions, which prompts her to reflect on her feelings for Will. She becomes more introspective, trying to understand what she truly feels as she watches Will interact with the others. Bobbi, ever perceptive, notices Mibs’s growing discomfort and teases her about Will’s clear affection toward her. This playful teasing forces Mibs to acknowledge her own feelings, although her responses are uncertain, fluctuating between shyness and curiosity. She finds herself questioning whether she is ready to explore these feelings more deeply, unsure of what it all means. Her internal conflict highlights the emotional complexities of adolescence, where every interaction feels heightened and significant, especially in the context of relationships that are just beginning to evolve.

During this quiet moment of reflection, Bobbi opens up about her own struggles. As the preacher’s daughter, she confides in Mibs about the pressure she feels to conform to a certain image and the weight of societal expectations that she constantly battles against. This admission of vulnerability helps the two girls bond on a deeper level. They share a candid conversation, discussing their respective challenges, their desires for freedom, and their evolving sense of self. For Mibs, it’s a revelation that she is not alone in feeling the pressure of growing up and trying to reconcile who she is with the expectations placed upon her. This shared understanding provides a sense of connection, helping Mibs realize that she’s not the only one struggling with the complexities of identity and the transition from childhood into young adulthood.

As the chapter draws to a close, Mibs and Bobbi float together in the pool, reflecting on the idea that life sometimes feels surreal. They both share the sentiment that it feels as though they’re navigating a strange dreamscape, where the rules of childhood seem to blur as they step closer to maturity. This introspective moment encapsulates the bittersweet nature of their growth, as they begin to move past the innocence of childhood and enter a more complex, uncertain future. Their conversation marks a key turning point, not just in their friendship but in their personal development, as they start to navigate the emotional intricacies of adolescence. The chapter leaves the reader with a sense of quiet contemplation, as Mibs and Bobbi’s shared experiences illustrate the transformative journey of self-discovery, growth, and the complexities of navigating new emotions, relationships, and expectations. Their evolving bond and the realization of the challenges ahead remind them of the importance of personal growth and the strength that comes from understanding one’s identity in the face of a rapidly changing world.