Summary

The narrative returns to Vic being interrogated by Sergeant Mendes. Mendes wants Vic to tell her what he saw happen in that house. She says this is not art; this is life. She asks Vic why Baz Kabongo killed Mad's uncle. Vic replies that Baz did not kill Mad's uncle. Now we go back to two days ago. Vic is losing breath. Mad's uncle is holding him in a tight choke-hold as he presses the broken liquor bottle to his neck, drawing blood. Vic wonders if this is how we will die. Mad stands frozen in the bathroom doorway. Just as Vic feels like he is losing consciousness, sound returns.

The novel goes back to Mad's perspective. Mad watches frozen by the bathroom doorway, unable to move or do anything to help Vic. Suddenly, Zuz comes out of nowhere. He punches Uncle Lester...