But not your son.

Not him.

Take it out on me.”

Chapter 24 — The People at the Elevator

Early one morning there was a commotion near the elevators — a hospital guard trying, without much success, to organize a growing crowd of plainly dressed people who had filled the waiting area and spilled into the hall.

“We’re here to be tested,” a deliveryman of about forty insisted, still in his work clothes.

“We’re friends of Santiago’s.” Aurelio rose from his chair.