Marvin I took the elevator to the top floor and found my way to Tiago’s recovery room. “Leave,” I told the maid guarding the door. Her lips trembled in fear. “Sir, your mother gave us instructions to—“ “Do I look like my mother?” The woman shook her head vigorously and walked away without saying another word. I didn’t want to be like this, but I was doing it for Tiago. I was doing it, so I didn’t have to lose him. I pushed the trolley and entered the room while holding my breath. The smell was like torture. “Santiago.” Tiago sat in his usual corner on the bed and raised his head to look at me. His eyes were dull and lifeless. “Marvin.” He sounded pathetic, and I felt sorry for him. I didn’t want it to be like this. “It smells like someone died in here. Please take a shower.” “Anya

