Just as Susan began crying louder, a nurse entered the room, trying to soothe her. Chen, sensing the unfolding drama, discreetly slipped out, not wanting any part of it. As he stepped outside, he ran directly into Susan's mother, Mrs. Wenger. She gave him a questioning look, but he avoided eye contact and hurried down the hall toward his boss, James.
Inside the ward, Mrs. Wenger found Susan sitting on the bed, tears streaming down her face, as she clutched her cheek and wailed. The nurse continued to try to calm her, but Susan only cried harder, turning her face dramatically toward her mother.
“What’s wrong, Susan?” Mrs. Wenger asked, concerned. She examined the cheek Susan was clutching but saw nothing unusual. “What happened? What’s wrong with your cheek?”
Susan’s voice trembl
