Polly returns home to find a stranger on her porch who introduces himself as Dennis Werner, Tegan’s brother. Afraid to flee because Tegan is hidden in the basement, Polly plays it cool, notes he isn’t law enforcement, and hears his account of the crash, the missing belongings, and the police search.

Despite her better judgment, Polly invites Dennis inside for coffee to calm him and control the situation. As they pass the basement door, she worries Tegan might hear her brother’s voice. Dennis shares his guilt and fear, while Polly reassures him and denies seeing Tegan, trying to move him along quickly.

A loud crash from the basement breaks the rhythm, and Dennis questions the noise. Polly improvises, blaming their nonexistent cat, while privately considering violent contingency plans. Dennis accepts the explanation, gives Polly his number, and departs without discovering the basement.

Once Dennis leaves, Polly rushes to the basement door to check on Tegan. Hearing no response, she is hit by a strong smell of smoke and realizes the house is on fire—Tegan’s attempt to trigger rescue has escalated from a small smoke ploy to a dangerous blaze.