They Both Die at the End

As Mateo, Rufus, and Lidia head into Clint’s Graveyard, Mateo reflects on how, in some ways, his End Day has been wonderful: “I found a Last Friend in Rufus. Our best friends are joining us on our End Day. We’ve overcome fears. And we’re now at Clint’s Graveyard, which receives high praise online, and this could be the perfect stage for me if I outgrow my insecurities—in the next few minutes” (301). Once inside, Mateo tells Rufus how nervous and excited he is to be there at Clint’s Graveyard. While it is not his usual scene, he is eager to make sure he participates so that he dies without regret.

There is a stage at Clint’s Graveyard for karaoke, and Rufus suggests to Mateo that they perform a song together. Mateo agrees, and they select “American Pie” by Don McLean as the song they will perform. When they take the stage and begin to sing, Mateo becomes emotional: “My eyes are tearing up. My face is warm — no, hot […] A dream couldn’t possibly capture the intensity of this moment” (307). Everyone in the audience is moved by the song, too. When their performance ends, Mateo and Rufus head offstage, behind a curtain and Mateo kisses Rufus: “I kiss the guy who brought me to life on the day we’re going to die” (308).