Summary

Chapter 19, titled “Last Resort of the Doomed,” starts with Deeze and Mama leaving the house for the day, planning on first stopping by Karen’s school to talk to the nuns about her suspension and then going to the hospital for Mama’s cancer treatment. A few minutes after they leave, there is a knock on the door. It is Mrs. Gronan, wearing a low-cut nightie asking for Deeze. Karen says he is not here and Mrs. Gronan leaves. A moment later the phone rings. It is a collect call from Joliet Correctional Facility. Karen accepts the call and Mr. Gronan is on the other end and demands Karen tell him what Mrs. Gronan just asked her. Karen lies and claims she was looking for Mama to ask about mail which may have been delivered to the wrong house. Mr. Gronan is thrilled...