What does this show about Rooster?

• A. He admired Mattie's independence.
• B. He trusted Mattie completely.
• C. He resented LaBoeuf's status more than Pepper.
• D. He was jealous of Mattie's attention to LaBoeuf.

Answer: (D)

The main idea this question tests is Rooster’s emotional reaction to Mattie’s interactions with LaBoeuf, which reveals jealousy. Rooster isn’t just a hard-talking gunslinger here; he cares about Mattie’s attention and feels protective, even a touch possessive, when another man—LaBoeuf—draws her focus. That jealousy shows a deeper stake in their dynamic and hints at personal feelings beyond mere admiration or professional concern. It helps explain why he reacts the way he does and how his relationship with Mattie is more complex than simple mentorship or loyalty. The other possibilities don’t capture that personal, emotional edge in his response.