In 1983, a man with burns on 9. 5% of his body is admitted to a hospital in Los Alamos, New Mexico, as a suspect in a murder case. The detective, eager to speak with him, leaves a notepad and pen for communication. The man's disfigurement prevents him from talking, but he shows signs of distress when asked about cults and satanism. Before the detective can return from a phone call, the man jumps out of the window, leaving a note saying "I'm sorry Abby". Meanwhile, a lonely 12-year-old boy named Owen is enjoying candy outside his apartment before dinner with his divorced mother.