“I wanted you to have time to accept it.”

“Accept it?” I said.

“You want me to accept a meeting you didn’t invite me to?”

“I’m inviting you now.” He checked the wristband.

The elevator opened.

I stepped in and held the door with my bag until Charles had to either follow or let it close on him.

On the fourth floor, the hallway lights were brighter.

A nurse pointed me to room 412 without my asking.