Demon and Stoner Stone sit through a supervised visit at a fast-food place with Miss Barks watching nearby. The two eat in silence, each avoiding the other, and Demon keeps hoping Miss Barks will end the visit. Demon reflects that Louise wanted reconciliation and that arguing with a dead mother feels impossible.

Demon probes Stoner about moving and learns Stoner is back in Heeltown, apparently resetting his life. Stoner makes a wistful comment that Louise “could of been real happy” with him “if things were different,” which Demon hears as blame and erasure. Demon also thinks about how Louise’s protecting Stoner—claiming she was the abusive one—kept charges from being filed, leaving Stoner with potential legal influence over Demon’s future.

Because DSS might allow Stoner a say in guardianship and support, Demon tries to spark any sign of interest. Demon blurts out attempts to sound worthy—football, weight training through Fast Forward’s equipment, and even the possibility of an honor roll report card—but Stoner remains detached, more focused on his food than Demon’s life.

When Demon mentions missing school due to cutting tobacco, Stoner’s main reaction is judgment that the foster parents allow it. Demon finally snaps and spells out the reality: there are no “parents,” just an old man running a labor setup for boys, and Demon hates living there. Demon adds that the farm won’t keep boys through winter, implying Demon will soon need another place to go, but Stoner offers no solution.

Desperate, Demon tries one last leverage point by claiming the Peggots have invited him to Knoxville for Christmas break. Stoner responds with a flat “You all have a nice time,” making clear how far he is willing to let Demon drift from him. Demon admits to himself the invitation is a lie, but decides he will go anyway because he has nowhere else.