News of the Cat Lady's Death

Alex is brought before a senior police officer, who informs him that the old woman has died from her injuries. Alex realizes that he is now a murderer and that his life is effectively over. He is only fifteen years old. The news is delivered with a sense of grim satisfaction by the police, who seem to relish Alex's despair. This moment is a turning point, as Alex understands the full consequences of his actions. The chapter ends with Alex's world collapsing around him.