How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Things have to change.
I've been thinking about it. Everything. And when Feather opens her eyes and looks up at me, I already know there's change. (1.11-12)
This is the first chapter of the book, and Bobby already has had a huge, obvious change to his life: He's a father. He also realizes that more than this has to change because he hasn't really changed yet. But he will.
Quote #2
I have to lean against the sides 'cause I could break down any minute. Just fall apart anytime before I get to my pop's apartment, which probably smells like chili-cheese fries. Just for me. (5.30)
It is not easy for Bobby to realize that he still relishes memories from his childhood and then realize that the door to that era is closed forever. Taking Feather to see his dad is one of these times. He's doing the responsible thing in parenting her, but then the enormity of how his life is different almost crushes him. No one ever said that dealing with change is easy.
Quote #3
I know she's trying to pretend she's not here.
Trying to pretend it never happened. (8.5-6)
Nia doesn't deal with the initial news of her pregnancy any better than Bobby does. Like him, she finds that it's easiest to ignore the changes to her life. This is one coping mechanism, but it doesn't work all that well for either of them.