Matt stood dumbly as Simon shouted at him. A part of him wanted to comfort his friend, to reassure him that he wasn't a monster at all. But, it didn't feel like the right response. Matt was at a complete loss as to how he was supposed to act in this sort of situation. He didn't have any life experience that would guide him. He felt empty and distant - as though he'd checked out the moment Simon shifted and lunged at the other man. He knew what he should do but every second he stood awkwardly by was one second too late.

"You're not a monster," he said softly. He glanced back at Simon's parents, hoping for some sign that they would back him up.

"You're not a monster," Matt said again, louder this time. "No one believes that. It's not your fault. But we need to figure out what to do next."