Chapters 16-18 Summary

In chapter sixteen, Tiger arrives home to find the house in a disheveled state. Corrina is in bed and has not showered for more than a week. Embarrassed about the house's condition, Tiger tells Magnolia that it is Tiger's job to wash the dishes. Magnolia greets Corrina with surprising warmth, then asks Lonnie to drive her to her quarters for the evening.

The next morning, Tiger prepares for her first day working at the Thompson Nursery. Magnolia is already in the kitchen making breakfast. Magnolia queries Tiger about why she would leave such a loving home to live with her aunt. Tiger tells Magnolia that Dorie Kay will take care of her, but Magnolia tells Tiger that she is "a big girl" and Tiger's family needs her. At the nursery, Jesse helps Lonnie and Tiger with the important Louisiana Lady Camellia...