The Secret Battle of Evan Pao

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of bullying, racism, and emotional abuse.

Brady is absent on Monday after the rope swing incident, and Evan feels relieved, sensing that the entire class shares this feeling. He sings on the way home, but his mood changes when he discovers broken glass all over the floor and his dog, Mochi, crying in pain. Evan carefully removes a shard of glass from Mochi’s paw, but the dog remains anxious and distressed.

Evan calls Elaine, who rushes home. Celeste arrives soon after and convinces Elaine to call the police. Officers McEnearney and Nelson respond but seem more interested in the Paos’ home than the crime itself. They make insensitive comments, such as admiring the artwork and asking Elaine if she can cook Chinese food for them. When Celeste asks what they think caused the damage, the officers dismiss it, suggesting it could have been a bird or debris from a car tire.

The officers ask if the Paos have upset anyone, but Elaine replies that they do not know anyone well enough to have conflicts. During their inspection, the officers find a bullet lodged in Evan’s bedroom wall. They measure its trajectory and exchange concerned looks before stating they will speak with the neighbors.