Simon signed. "Thank you, Elijah..." he said more calmly. "I don't know who it was..." He did. Unless... Was it Hurley? Hurley had seen marks several times, but seemed amused more than shocked. It gave him an extra reason to mock and humiliate Simon. Hurley had no reason to report it. Unless this was another twisted way to torment poor people. Simon looked at Elijah. "I'm sorry you were dragged into this, Elijah. And I'm sorry... father must have given you a hard time..."

Elijah shook his head. "Don't apologize. You're the one dragged into this more than anyone. I still say Ben shouldn't hit you or anyone. I just want you guys safe, and I am sorry I had to do this." He handed him the paper. "Just have a talk with whoever you think might have done this. And stay safe, ok? I'll tell Ben I am sorry later, if he'll even speak to me."He smiled weakly at him.

"Yeah... I'd wait with that..." Simon muttered uncomfortably. He took the paper. "Thank you."

Elijah nodded and filed away the signed paper with the rest of the ones about the incident. He looked at Simon sadly. "Please be careful, ok? I don't like Ben mad at me, but I have to stay firm. But he's your dad and you live together and.. I know there's a lotgoing on and I don't want to get between things. I just pray that things get figured out and you all get whatever middle ground there can be that you are all happy."

Simon frowned and nodded slowly. "A few more months and I can get out of here, I'm sure... Will's almost out of school."

Elijah nodded. "He is. And I want you to get out, if it will bring you happiness. I think you deserve some space to yourself."

Simon nodded. "I should go now. Father doesn't know I'm here..."

Elijah smiled weakly. "He'd be mad at both of us if he did. Go home, stay safe." He held the door for him.

Simon nodded, gave Elijah a small, sad smile, and left.