Zach's Lie

Aunt Doris and Uncle Don help the family set up the bookstore and settle into their small house. Before the US Marshals leave for good, Uncle Don speaks privately with Zach, warning him to tell his mom if he sees anyone suspicious or if he blows his cover. In Uncle Don’s experience, kids of relocated families do not understand the potential danger. Zach resents Uncle Don’s assumption that Zach will mess up. He thinks about the lie their lives are and wonders when his mom will mail the postcard to June, letting Neil know they are safe.

Wanda angrily tells Zach to stop worrying his mom and get out and explore Elko. Instead, Zach prefers watching television and journaling. Zach thinks that the stressful situation brought his mom and sister closer but left him out. He and Wanda had a close relationship until Wanda decides she wants to be an actress and begins singing, acting, and dance lessons. Zach resents that Wanda will get to leave Elko soon and go to UCLA near Hollywood while he will be stuck at home.

On a walk, Zach discovers Elko Middle School, which is empty for the summer. Inside, piano music draws him to the lavish auditorium where he sits and listens.