At the same time, Helen has fallen in love with Joe, a charming and romantic young gentleman who works for the Fenners' family business, a gas station.

Thelma, upset that her plans for her daughters are coming undone, has Joe fired and exhorts Deenie to resume the pursuit of a modeling career once she stops wearing the back brace.

In the final chapter, Deenie takes off her brace and puts on an old favorite outfit in anticipation of attending a party at her friend Janet's house.

Though Thelma gives her consent, Frank, who, until then, was rather mute about everything, firmly refuses, rightfully pointing out that Deenie would want to not wear the brace for every special occasion thereafter, if he gave in that night.

[1] The passages that are most frequently cited as reasons for removing the book from libraries are: "[That week] I touched my special place practically every night.