In September 1969, Kya motors to Jumpin’s wharf to copy the bus schedule, considering a trip to Greenville to meet her editor, Robert Foster. Their long correspondence has formed a bond, and Kya wants to meet him, but she is uneasy about traveling among strangers.

Jumpin’ greets Kya and, noticing discoloration on her face, presses for the truth. Kya, shaken yet trusting him, admits that Chase Andrews hit her and had tried to force himself on her, though she fought him off. Jumpin’ is furious at Chase’s impunity, calling him the “King of the World.”

When Jumpin’ urges action, Kya refuses to report the assault, explaining that authorities and townspeople would likely blame her and protect Chase, as they would ignore similar accusations from Colored Town. She cannot endure public interrogation and scandal.

They discuss safety. Kya plans to wait until the bruise fades, may stay at her secluded reading cabin where Chase won’t find her, and will consider the Greenville trip later. Jumpin’ insists she check in often; if she goes missing, he will come looking, even with others. Kya agrees to keep him informed.