ALEXANDER I returned to the room some minutes later. Faye was sitting quietly on the couch, wrapped in a fresh towel, her still-damp hair falling loosely over her shoulders. She looked up when I walked in. She looked better now. I held up the mug in my hand. "Sorry I took some time." A faint smile appeared on her face. "Thank you." I walked over and sat opposite her before handing it to her carefully. She accepted it with both hands, the warmth of the mug immediately settling against her fingers. She looked down at it before picking up the teaspoon and stirring the tea absentmindedly. The soft clinking sound filled the quiet room. She brought the mug to her lips and took a small sip. The reaction was immediate. Her eyes widened ever so slightly, and I could see her forcing hers

