Bryce discovers Juli taking on her front yard as a major improvement project. It increases his guilt over the harsh things he said, and after watching her struggle with the overgrown shrubbery, he decides to help her the next day. When he gets off the bus and walks home, though, his grandfather is already in the Bakers’ yard assisting her. This shocks Bryce because Granddad is dressed in work clothes and full of energy; he and Juli laugh and talk. Bryce hides in his room, unable to accomplish homework.

At dinner, Granddad’s good mood is evident, but Bryce’s father tinges the bright atmosphere with sarcastic comments about Granddad’s lack of help around their own home. Mr. Loski also questions why Juli is the one fixing up the yard, and at this, Granddad stares at Bryce. Bryce panics: He sees in a flash that Granddad knows about both the eggs and Bryce’s rude comments to Juli and that he could tell all to Bryce’s parents. Granddad opts not to tell but informs Bryce after dinner that Bryce must rethink his choices.

Bryce is frustrated by his grandfather’s helping Juli all week. On Saturday, he watches them work until they catch him peeking, then he walks for hours and ends up at Garrett’s.