Lillian's perspective "That's not what I mean," I said, "the pill works—that's what I'm trying to say." Seeing him walking down the stairs to the door, I hurried forward and grabbed his arm. "Don't go yet. I made you some porridge. Have some before you leave." I led him to the table. "Let's skip the hotel food for now. Eat some lightly seasoned food and nourish your stomach." He must have woken up from hunger because as soon as he heard me say I had cooked porridge, he turned back with me. I scooped him a bowl of porridge and another for myself, then went to sit across from him. "Where are you going later? Is it a new building?" I asked. Ismail gave a faint hum in response. "Can you take me with you, if it's not too much trouble?" I suddenly suggested. I had stayed in the hotel the

