Cameron drives a failing, aunt-funded camper north toward Sowell Bay, low on sleep and money after a rough first night in Washington. He heads straight to Brinks Development but finds the office locked. The aquarium is also closed until noon, reinforcing his sense that the town is dormant and unwelcoming.

With an hour to kill, Cameron visits the Shop-Way deli, where a red-bearded grocer, Ethan, and teen worker Tanner serve him a free “house special” pastrami melt. During small talk, Cameron admits he is searching for his father, Simon Brinks. Ethan recognizes the name but offers no connection, and they share awkward banter about Cameron’s defunct band.

Leaving the store, Cameron discovers his camper’s rear tire is flat, a costly setback given his dwindling cash and still-missing luggage. As Cameron frets, Ethan notices and comes over, introduces himself, and offers help—providing Cameron a first friendly contact even as his search for Brinks stalls.