Located on the ward’s third floor, Ivan’s room was right at the end of a long hall. Since the surgery was completed, the same story always played out upon entering his room.

“Ah, doctor,” Ivan draws his eyes away from where he looked out the window, turning to you with that wide, unchanging smile that he constantly wore, “How are you today?” . He seemed happy to see you. Though, then again, he never seemed to show any emotion besides one of happiness. Not after the operation, at least.