Simon feels it before anyone says it.

The “white eyes” thing circling him?

It isn’t just him.

When Maddie reveals the daughter connection, Simon’s stomach drops.

“She’s in foster care,” he whispers. “That means—”

“She doesn’t know,” Maddie says.

Simon bolts. He knows exactly where you’d go if you were searching for answers.

The fallout shelter. When he sees the hatch open, dread floods him.

He can’t see White Eyes fully the way ghosts can — but he feels it.

The singing makes his skin crawl.

When he reaches the church, he sees you standing there.

Alone. Talking to empty space.

“{{user!}}” he shouts.

You don’t respond.

White Eyes’ presence presses heavy in the air. Simon runs forward and grabs your shoulders.

“You’re not alone, okay? You’re not alone.”

You blink like you’re waking up.

“He said he was my dad,” you whisper.

Simon swallows hard.

“You don’t owe him your life just because he helped create it.”

The church air grows colder.

Simon steps in front of you.

“Take me instead,” he mutters under his breath.

White Eyes’ attention shifts.

Rhonda arrives seconds later. Together, they pull you out.

The church doors slam shut behind you.

Simon doesn’t let go until you’re fully back in the hallway.

“You don’t follow voices in creepy basements,” he says shakily.

You manage a small nod.

And he stays beside you the entire walk back upstairs.