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by testsuphomeAdminThe chapter begins with two boys, Will and Jim, both facing tumultuous situations at home, where their parents express frustration, leading to both boys being sent to their rooms hungry. At seven o’clock, everything seems to explode into chaos; doors slam, and locks clank as frustration builds up. Will feels isolated, standing by the door, pondering about Miss Foley, whom he wishes he could call. However, he realizes that even if he did call, she wouldn’t answer, leaving him grappling with the notion that the nephew she has is not what he seems.
Across the street, Jim is in a similar predicament, both boys trapped by the expectations and oversight of their parents. They both resort to their beds, looking for comfort in familiar places, searching for secret stashes of sweets while grappling with their shared frustrations. Time passes, and as the clock ticks, the tension mounts—Will’s father approaches the door, marking a moment filled with anticipation. Will yearns for an open conversation with his dad, but his father merely lingers outside, seemingly lost in his thoughts.
An exchange occurs between Will’s parents about his safety, where Dad expresses a vague warning of being careful, reflecting his own confusion and worries. The door eventually shuts, leaving Will feeling abandoned as he urges his dad to stay inside, sensing the dangers of the night. With solitude enveloping him, Will reflects on the library across town, a sanctuary in times of disaster where he could escape into the vastness of books and knowledge.
As he tries to connect with Jim, throwing pebbles to draw his attention, silence envelops the night, amplifying Will’s sense of urgency. It is unusual for Jim not to respond immediately; he is typically full of energy and mischief. Will grapples with the fear of the unknown concerning Miss Foley and the mysterious figure who has captured Jim’s attention. With a final marble thrown in frustration, Will lies back on his bed, cold and stiff, aware that something important must happen tonight, though he is left in the dark about what actions he should take next.
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