What theme is reinforced by Lily's relationship with Zach?

• A. It shows that all relationships across boundaries are doomed
• B. It shows the possibility of friendship and love across racial boundaries
• C. It proves race should define relationships
• D. It shows that cross-racial relationships are illegal

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is that genuine connection can cross racial lines, showing friendship and love across boundaries rather than division.

Lily’s relationship with Zach illustrates that people from different races can form meaningful, caring bonds. Through their interactions, Lily moves beyond the prejudices she’s absorbed and learns to see Zach as a person with his own experiences, values, and humanity. This relationship offers hope that empathy and mutual respect can bridge racial divides, reinforcing a message of unity and personal growth rather than segregation.

The other options imply doom, rigidly defined roles by race, or illegality, which the story does not promote. Instead, the narrative emphasizes possibility and connection across racial boundaries, which is why this choice is the best fit.