Ribbons

The next morning, Robin bumps into Mom in the kitchen. Mom shows Robin that she’s replaced her ice cream bar and admits that living with Grandmother has been difficult. However, Mom still encourages Robin to consider The Debt. 

At school that morning, Robin gives Amy her old ribbons. During the rest of the day, Robin thinks critically about Grandmother’s sacrifice and resolves to make more of an effort. When Robin gets home, she asks Grandmother to sew the spare ribbons onto her pointe shoes, eager to spend quality time together. However, when Grandmother catches a glimpse of Robin’s misshapen feet, she is shocked and urges Robin to quit ballet. The two argue until Mom interrupts.

Though Robin protests, Grandmother draws Mom’s attention to Robin’s curling toes. Mom, concerned, insists that Robin see a doctor, though Robin insists, falsely, that she feels no pain. In the meantime, at Grandmother’s urging, Mom confiscates Robin’s shoes. 

Robin is shocked that Mom has betrayed her. When Dad arrives home, she ambushes him, complaining that Mom and Grandmother have taken away ballet. Dad, indignant, confronts Mom and immediately blames her family. However, when Dad notices Robin’s toes, he agrees that she should rest.