Eli's mind, although a little chaotic sometimes, was usually a semi-happy place. He took pleasure in the little thing, the fun of standing up on the truck as it moved, the wind in his hair, the little nicknames he gave people. At that time, his mind was stuck on the theme parks. Which rides would Vinnie agree to go on? Getting candy floss for Lele and funnelcake with Rey. It was clear most of his thoughts were of his friends, though occasionally there was a flash. An angry, stony face of an older man in a lab coat telling Eli just how disappointed he was.