I’m back to my trance as Malik makes me a cup of spicy tea, claiming it works best for cold. I don’t argue. I'm not a tea person but I like the flavor of spices and their enriched aroma. I think it's from India.

"Now tell me, what's really going on with you?" He suddenly changes attitude, from the sweet prince charming into an overly meticulous butler.

"I don't understand, nothing is going on with me," I lie, staring innocently at him.

"Well, your eyes suggest otherwise." He plays with the glass of his ember liquid.

"Because I've been swimming for an hour, maybe?" I shrug elusively.

"No, you were...