Demon contrasts Swap-Out’s haplessness with Tommy’s ingenuity and self-sacrifice. When the farm’s well runs dry, Mr. Crickson (“Creaky”) assumes Tommy left the hydrant open. In fact, Fast Forward drained it washing his truck, but says nothing. Creaky declares “farming is a war” and whips Tommy with a hose while Fast Forward walks away. Tommy endures the punishment and refuses to snitch.

Later, Demon finds Tommy hiding in the hay, drawing skeletons—simple “little buddies” he carries everywhere. Demon recognizes Tommy’s quiet bravery and the stakes of acceptance among the boys. The moment deepens Demon’s sense of loyalty and isolation within the foster household.

Meanwhile, weekly visits with Demon’s mom resume. She’s back at work on lousy shifts, nauseous and exhausted from pregnancy, and complains that Stoner is unsupportive and avoids Demon. Farm life grinds on: cold mornings, constant chores, barely enough food, and the boys looking forward to Friday nights to watch Fast Forward’s heroics at Lee High.

Fast Forward tutors Demon in basic football skills behind the barn, feeding Demon’s dream of becoming a player like him. The team’s glory magnifies Fast Forward’s status in the house, even as his silence after the water incident reveals his selfishness.

As tobacco season intensifies, Demon learns the brutal rhythm of topping in the heat and sap. He catches Tommy gathering the pink flower tops and placing them on two small dirt mounds by the lane. That night Tommy explains they are pretend graves for his parents—rituals he leaves at every foster home—exposing his grief and the lasting damage of displacement.