Addie begins the chapter reflecting that the first day of school is usually light on work, and she looks forward most to English because it is her best subject. She dreams of becoming a poet, even if she assumes she will probably end up following her mother into nursing. Wanting comfort and inspiration, Addie chooses a seat by the window in Mr. Bennett's classroom because she no longer has friends to sit with.

Before class starts, Kenzie Montgomery and Bella confront Addie and claim her seat. Because Addie is already under social pressure and does not want more conflict, she gives up the spot and moves to an empty desk in the front row. That leaves Addie uncomfortably close to Mr. Bennett, but it also puts her directly in his view.

As class begins, Addie studies Mr. Bennett and immediately notices his charm, good looks, and relaxed teaching style. His classroom feels very different from Mrs. Bennett's stricter one, and Addie is relieved that English may actually be enjoyable. While watching him, Addie also briefly thinks of Mr. Tuttle and notes that whatever drew her to him had never been physical.

Mr. Bennett tells the class that the year will emphasize poetry and asks students to name their favorite poem if they truly have one. Many students are eager to impress him, especially the girls. Even though Addie has been trying to stay invisible, Mr. Bennett calls on her directly and uses her full name, which she corrects to Addie.

Addie names Poe's "Annabel Lee" as her favorite poem, and Mr. Bennett responds with genuine enthusiasm because he loves Poe too. He quotes lines from the poem, asks Addie what it means, and listens as she explains that it is about a youthful love who died. Mr. Bennett says they will study the poem later in the year, then playfully links Poe's love of the letter L to names like Annabel Lee, Lenore, Eulalie, and Adeline before winking at Addie.

By the end of class, Addie's mood has completely shifted. Although the rest of the school day has reminded her that she is hated and alone, Mr. Bennett's attention and their shared love of poetry make her feel seen and understood. That moment gives Addie a powerful emotional lift and makes English class suddenly feel important to her in a new way.