A boy is told his hospitalized father agreed to attend his birthday once discharged, so he gleefully plans to invite classmates while hiding that he lacks a father. His mother reassures him the gift will be liked and someone will check the discharge timing. He imagines showing classmates his dad's strength. Later, Fletcher confronts someone for repeatedly hurting Simon, saying, 'If you didn't plan to come, you should have refused Simon.' The accusation abruptly undermines the planned celebration and leaves the father's promise and Simon's safety unresolved.