* * *
I’m sitting on the floor, next to the toilet, when footsteps approach and Varya’s voice calls for me from the other side of the door. It’s been an hour or so since I vomited the last time, so I stand up slowly and hunch over the sink. After splashing some cold water onto my face, I unlock the door.
“Dear child,” Varya says and reaches for me, but I take a step back.
“I need you to call me a taxi. Please.”
“Don’t leave. It’ll destroy him, Nina. Please, let him explain.”
“Taxi,” I rasp. “Or I’m going on foot.”
Varya looks at me sadly and nods. I see one tear escape and roll down her cheek before she reaches for her phone.
Roman
There is a knock at the door, but I remain seated in the recliner facing the window and watch the yellow car idling in the driveway.
“Pakhan.”
