Zach does not want to go with Mary and Wanda to a book convention in Los Angeles, but Mary refuses to let him stay home alone. Zach suggests he stay with Sam. Mary conditionally agrees if Sam approves. Sam is happy to have Zach board in an extra room at the Nevada Hotel. He, Zach, and Catalin will then spend the weekend at Benat’s sheep camp. Mary surprises Zach by mentioning his fight with Peter, and Zach adds “Eventually” to Peter’s phrase “Everyone knows Everything about Everyone” (102), which refers to Elko’s close-knit community.

In homeroom, Zach sees “Commander IF was here!” written in red on the chalkboard (147). The teacher is angry. Zach thinks of three possible explanations: another person has an imaginary friend with the same name, Neil was trying to contact him, or Wanda told a friend whose little sibling is playing a joke on him. Zach believes it is Wanda’s fault. The real culprit is Peter: He read Zach’s journal. He internalized his father’s gambling advice and is playing a waiting game, keeping his knowledge secret.

Darrell suggests they sneak into the auditorium’s unlocked balcony and watch the auditions for The Opera Ghost, even though students are not allowed to attend.