How does Phoebe cover for Holden when their parents come home?

• A. She says Holden is out with friends.
• B. She says she was smoking.
• C. She says Holden is in trouble.
• D. She says Holden is sleeping.

Answer: (B)

This moment highlights Phoebe’s protective loyalty and wily resourcefulness in shielding Holden from adult scrutiny. When their parents come home, Phoebe takes the heat by saying she was smoking. That lie shifts the focus away from Holden’s trouble and onto Phoebe’s own behavior, giving Holden a chance to maintain his privacy and avoid immediate punishment. It shows how tightly she’s willing to cover for him, even at personal risk, and reinforces the strong, protective bond between the siblings.

Saying Holden is out with friends or asleep wouldn’t fit as cleanly with the situation, and claiming Holden is in trouble would only raise alarms. By taking responsibility herself, Phoebe preserves Holden’s standing in their parents’ eyes and underscores her role as his staunch ally.