I have found myself described as a villain of late. It seems only right that I act the part, does it not?

[ He drinks his tea slowly, thoughtfully, trying not to be too obvious about watching Theo as he tries to figure out what might be done to help him. More mint for tea. Earplugs, perhaps, as a last resort. Aloe, perhaps, to cool the skin. Or thin layers of cloth, dampened and frozen.

Eventually, he places the cup down. ]

I shan't be offended if you dismiss me, when I return. But I would ask you to do so only if you wish to. Put aside any notions of burdening me. Because in truth, I have never felt lighter than I have since your arrival