As the descent down the Towers’ stairs continues, the group realizes that planes have hit both skyscrapers and that they are breathing jet fuel. Alia wonders how two planes might have had this occur on such a beautiful, clear day; someone in the stairway mutters that “It’s those damn Muslims again” (260). Alia contests this statement, noting that Muslims are non-violent; the woman appears anxious when she notices Alia’s headscarf. Alia prays, “Please God, don’t let it be Muslims” (260).

The group starts to encounter NYC firefighters carrying full gear as they climb the lengthy staircase. Alia notices “[…] a young guy, probably in his twenties…He’s breathing hard, but he manages to nod…” (261), as well as an “[…] one older firefighter who has a hand clasped to his chest” (261). One of the responders asks what is wrong with Julia. When advised that she has a heart condition, they turn and rush her down the stairs. Travis realizes that he is still carrying Julia’s purse, and assures Alia that he intends to return it. She answers, “I believe you” (262), and he notes that while his dad “[…] thinks I’m a pretty horrible excuse for a human being…” he is actually a good person who has made some mistakes.