Chapter summary
3 DECEMBER - EIGHT MINUTES AFTER DAWN
At 7:23 A.M. on December 3, the demonic entity (referred to as “the devil”) watches Kevin Simpson’s body still twitching in the bathtub. The devil notes that most of Simpson’s hair is gone, his face is scorched and burst, and he can no longer breathe, concluding that death is imminent or already achieved. The devil turns off the digital recorder, checking that it captured eight minutes and fifteen seconds of audio, and decides only a fraction will be needed later. He comments on the bathroom’s stench, steps back onto the landing, and shuts the door on the mess. Overhead, wires from a broken smoke‑detector dangle, ensuring the air remains un‑alarmed by Simpson’s passing. The devil recalls having removed all surveillance equipment on previous occasions, a task now irrelevant but previously kept him occupied while waiting for Simpson to regain consciousness. He briefly checks Simpson’s computer for emails, wonders about the girl who was there the day before, and notes she is likely sleeping, unaware of her actions. Before departing, the devil collects remaining items, places the digital recorder into the pocket of his overalls, and notes he will need the recording when it comes time to make the phone call.