My Heart Is a Chainsaw

At her high school graduation ceremony, Jade sees that her father Tab is there, drinking a beer. She suspects that he is there for Rexall, who is being honored for saving the kids from the bus even though Jade deserves that credit. Jade is not technically graduating because she still must make up assignments for history class, and since Mr. Holmes is retiring, she doubts that his replacement will allow her to write about slasher movies. She is doubtful she will ever graduate.

A group of families from Terra Nova, referred to as the Founders, arrive to watch the graduation, including Letha’s father, Theo Mondragon. Jade observes him alongside a few other wealthy bankers and lawyers who live in the new development. Letha gives a speech, but graciously cedes the title of valedictorian to another student, since she does not think it is fair for her transferred grades to count. Mr. Holmes then gives a pointed speech about the new Terra Nova housing development, comparing the new arrivals to the Greek Gods coming to the homes of Greek fishermen or the Incan elites who built fully staffed houses for their dead relatives. Jade notices that her mother, Kimmy, is present, who Jade usually only sees because she is a cashier at the dollar store.