Erik continues his research on The Chain at home, and now believes it’s run by more than one person, possibly siblings; he also suspects a background in law enforcement. Rachel seems correct in thinking The Chain leaders live in New England. Meanwhile, a woman from The Chain spies on Erik as he conducts this research; she’s been tasked with killing him and stealing his notebook. She prepares to shoot him, reassuring herself that his life is so tragic that death might be welcome.

After Marty and Ginger pick Kylie up, Rachel and Pete wait for Erik to call them as planned—but he never does (because he’s dead). A posthumous message comes from Erik, explaining his likely death and how to use his app. Rachel is scared because Erik wrote her name in his notebook (after Pete let it slip). If The Chain leaders retrieve the notebook, they might connect her to Erik’s plan.

After Cheryl’s death, Tom briefly commits to self-improvement, but reverts to old ways, spending most of his time at a bar or working. Margaret learns to emulate his handwriting. One year after Cheryl’s death, Tom comes home drunk and angry that the twins ate the only food in the fridge.