Answer:
I think its in the opening
Explanation:
Considering you haven't given the actual excerpts, some help would be that direct characterization is as simple as saying "The man is wearing a broad-brimmed hat". It is literally "direct", straight to the point. Hope this helps.
Answer:
1. Hit it off (made it work)
2. Catch up (find out what someone has been doing)
3. Pick on (Make fun of, bully, abuse, mock)