Chapter summary
Chapter 3
The chapter opens with Jet lying in a silent hospital room while external noises continue. She hears a high‑pitched beep, a distant scream, and the sun setting, all underscoring her internal turmoil. Jet’s mother, Dianne, insists she must choose surgery, citing a “less than ten percent chance of survival.” Jet argues that she did not cause her own injuries and refuses to be a sacrifice. Her father (Luke) tries to calm the family, while “Dad” (referred to as Scott) steps in, emphasizing that the decision belongs to Jet.
Dr. Lee enters, explains that the trauma to Jet’s left hemisphere has caused anomic aphasia, making it hard for her to find specific words. She points out a stick‑on bandage on Jet’s head, indicating a blow to the left hemisphere. The doctor outlines the medical facts: multiple head blows have caused a subdural hematoma, a clivus fracture with a bone fragment pressing on the basilar artery, and the patient’s underlying polycystic kidney disease, which predisposes her to arterial wall weakness and a pending aneurysm. The recommended surgery is high‑risk with under a 10 % survival probability.
Before Jet can decide, the Vermont State Police arrive. Detective George Ecker, Sergeant Jack Finney (Billy’s father), and Chief Lou Jankowski introduce themselves and begin questioning. Jet, still affected by aphasia, struggles to recall words (“interview”) and to describe the assault. She repeatedly answers “I don’t know” when asked about the attacker, the weapon, and the number of assailants. The detectives note the missing iPhone 14 and Apple Watch and request the watch’s passcode, which Jet provides as “0709.” They also inquire about her ex‑boyfriend JJ Lim; Jet says they were together for almost two years and that he is missing, though the police suspect him.
Family members continue to urge surgery. Mom grips Jet’s foot, Mom’s tears flow, and Dad (Luke) repeats that the operation is the only hope. Dr. Lee reiterates that the decision must be Jet’s. Jet, hearing the “drumbeat” in her head, declares she will not choose surgery now, opting instead for the “seven days” she believes she has left. She stands, tries to leave the bed, and demands that the police wait. Her mother screams, her father pleads, and Dr. Lee appears almost relieved by Jet’s refusal. Jet declares, “I choose the seven days,” explaining she wants that time to solve her own murder and accomplish something meaningful before she dies.
The chapter ends with Jet’s family in disarray: Mom and Dad rush back into the room, the police prepare to leave, and Jet remains defiant, having asserted control over her fate despite the grim prognosis.