The point of the first sentence is that Squeaky and Gretchen are becoming closer after the race.
the point of the second sentence is that Squeaky is completely focused when she competes.
This stage is important because it is almost election time; (who will be 'chosen' / elected to become The (next) President of The United States Of America, to be in The White House.)
233!!!!!!!!!!!!! :) IS the correct
