Unfriended

Truly’s older brother, Henry, is neurodivergent, and he compares Truly’s pigtails to Athena’s pigtails. In Robert Fitzgerald’s translation of Homer’s ancient epic poem The Odyssey, the speaker describes Athena as “the awesome one in pigtails” (73). Truly wonders if the pigtails make her look “babyish.” She remembers when she and Natasha used to pretend they were on the red carpet. More recently, Truly went over to Natasha’s house, and Natasha took “sexy” photos of Truly.

In social studies class, the students discuss the Civil War, and Truly speaks a lot. Natasha quips, “Talk much?” Brooke thinks Natasha is jealous because Clay looks at Truly. Brooke doesn’t think Truly should apologize to Natasha.

Hazel remains angry at Truly for hanging out with the popular group. Hazel gathers the courage to approach Brooke and invite her over. Brooke claims she’s busy, but she says she might be able to come over next week.

Brooke gives her version of the interaction with Hazel. She doesn’t know Hazel’s name and thinks of Hazel as “awkward” and “moody.” She remembers her mother’s belief that she should be warm with everybody, so she agrees to go over to Hazel’s house sometime.