Part 1, Chapter 8 Summary

Dennis and Maggie arrive at the Winter Starlight Dance, and Dennis cannot help but notice the change in Maggie since she has lost some weight and is wearing a more stylish dress. Maggie is also impressed that Dennis has changed his style of dress to a more mature look and compliments him on his new suit.

Liz and Rod dance, and Liz wants to make sure that everyone sees that she is escorted by the best-looking boy in the hall. Rod cannot help but notice that Liz's eyes are wandering, hoping to catch sight of Sean. During a break, Rod gets some sodas and pours some alcohol into their cups from a silver flask hidden in his jacket. Liz quickly wearies of Rod's self-importance and lack of conversational skills and welcomes Maggie and Dennis's approach.

Rod whisks Liz back out on...