The Way I Used to Be

Edy adopts a new look at the beginning of sophomore year, including a new haircut, brand new clothes, and pierced ears: “It’s surprisingly easy to complete transform yourself” (63). She also begins going by her full name—“Eden” instead of her nickname “Edy.” Eden’s transformation, however, is not merely about her appearance. The start of sophomore year brings about a corresponding new attitude, too: “I just look like someone who’s not a kid anymore and can make her own decisions, like someone about to start her sophomore year—someone who’s not hiding anymore” (63). Eden’s mom tells Eden that she looks confident in her new look, as Eden heads out the door to school.

At school, Mara also compliments Eden on her new image. Cameron and Mara’s friendship continues to deepen; they have been hanging out all throughout summer. It is tacitly understood between Eden and Mara that Eden does not get along with Cameron: “Mara frowns a little but she’s used to it by now. Cameron and I are never going to be friends” (65). Eden walks into the study hall classroom and sees that the boy who crashed into her in the hallway last year—the boy known to her only as “Number 12”—is in her study hall class, along with a few of his jock athlete friends.