Okay this is the last 2 pages

I can infer that Jess and Layla's friendship is very close. On page 5 its states, "...and Jess was a Leo, just like Layla. Their birthdays were two days apart, and their mothers had met in the hospital; they had been best friends ever since." The text also mentions, " 'Jess.' she whispered to her best friend, 'I think I am allergic to science.' Jess peered at Layla through her bangs and sighed. 'Layla, you can't be allergic to a subject.'" Here, it shows us that they are talking nonsense between each other, which is sometimes things that best friends do. Especially in class.

:)

b.lincoln had the victory he wanted for emancipation

so, based on the research i've done. the u.s. government were always on a wild goose chase just to take down castro. he then retired his trone to his brother raul in 2008 due to some health issues. so it's obvious your answer would be:

castro had no allies from which he could receive aid.

hope this and have a fantastic day!

                                                    -wolfiewolffromsketch