What Is The What

Deng remains bound on the floor while Michael rummages through his bedroom. He hears the boy open drawers, and it makes him sick that Michael will see his personal photos of Tabitha. Tabitha and Deng originally met while at the Kakuma refugee camp. They took a Home Economics class together. Tabitha was the type of girl everyone loved, and Deng was smitten with her almost instantly. Since she was not forced to marry young, Tabitha was able to focus on her education. She made it to America and lived in Burien, a suburb of Seattle with her family. Deng was talking with one of the other Lost Boys who lived in Seattle when he put Tabitha on the phone. Deng is happy that Tabitha eventually chose him even though she was wanted by so many.

Deng tries speaking to Michael again but the boy simply ignores him. Deng then continues his story with how he met Dut Majok. Dut was leading a group of 30 boys and invited Deng to march with them toward Bilpam. Dut is the leader and emotional support for the group, ensuring that the boys keep moving and keep up their spirits.