“Doctor, what sorts of invasive tests were you going to run?”“Biopsies mostly. Also, taking samples of blood and bone marrow would be a big help... I already have your medical file here and have been going over it, so I’m familiar with your personal biology. Would you consent to these biopsies and samples sir?” the big woman asked.“Absolutely Doctor! Anything you can find on what’s going on with me would be a big help,” Alex said, nodding.“Very good sir! If you will lie back down on the bed. I had already spoken to him about her condition, and he agreed to treat her. When I heard of your arrival, I sent men to fetch him here.” Kayleen stood up on her tiptoes and whispered, “Look at her, Cerebus. She looks more aware than I’ve ever seen her.” He nodded. “Still not done paying your debt, huh? Bet this is costing you.” “I suspect this is a debt I will never repay in full.” He smiled and continued, “I am underwriting her treatment, but he has waived most of his customary fees in favor. I love the guy, butI won't let him in my kitchen, I wouldn't do that to our maid Consuela.I can't help that my father is a rich asshole, and I am only 16, so I kind of have to live with my parents- They are annoying, but not to the point of having to go live on my own. And, I admit, I like having access to the things money can buy. Without love, my parents don't care what I do, and as long as I don't cause them any grief, as long as I am invisible, they leave me alone, and let me buy what I. No blankets, just a thin sheet which they let me hand through the compartment once a day, returning me a fresh one. This is it. This is my world. I imagine Mom and Dad and Nancy are all worried sick or heartbroken. I wonder if the police are still looking for me. How many weeks or months has it been? I don't know. I just don't know, and that eats away at me. Without sunlight there is only one thing that anchors me to any sort of routine. There is one thing that I do know to expect. This.