John is just plain weird when it comes to Connor. I don't think Matty should waste time trying to help John balance his life better. He kind of reminds me of the description of Rusty's mother in this chapter. Connor's plan is doomed if it depends on making Rusty the campus clown if Connor unmasks Rybalt. Connor has heard Rybalt sing, so Connor must be tone deaf. The campus crowd is going to see the hypocrisy of Connor's attack on Rusty/Rybalt. I like August and feel in some ways that she is the needed female objective and impartial mentor he needs. It is obvious Rusty doesn't have that support from his mother. I do agree that Matty should go with Rusty to visit Mom, but at least Rusty should tell Matty that August will be with him when he sees Mom.