James did not want to prolong the conversation any further. He said, “Send me some money. I’m getting breakfast for Thea.”

Henry said, “I’ll Vinmo it to you.”

James left the clinic, buying some chicken noodle soup from a street vendor for Thea.

When he returned, Thea was awake.

Her face was bandaged in gauze. She lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling listlessly.

James went to her and put her breakfast down. Softly, he called, “Darling.”

Thea did not respond.

James took her hand in his. “