CHAPTER 71

(AHVI'S POINT OF VIEW)

“How have you been?”

The question makes me lift my head abruptly. I watch as Isleen ambles into the room with a big smile and a flask of food. She approaches the bed, which I have been glued to since I was admitted to the hospital more than a week ago. I have lost count of the visitors that come in through the door uninvited. “I brought you some porridge. I heard you haven't eaten well; it’s not good for the baby.”

I don't bother asking how she knew about my pregnancy or how she knew I was in the hospital. I watch her impassively and don't move a muscle from where I am sitting on the bed with my back resting against the wall and my knees hugged to my chest. She places the flask on the table and comes to sit on the vacant seat in front of me.

“What are you doing here?” My voice comes out raw and parched. My throat hurts and my chest clenches. She immediately takes out a bottle of water from her handbag and extends it toward me. I stare at the bottle blankly witho