Chapter 10
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For the next two days Nathan languished in bed, only forsaking the warmth and comfort of his quilt and pillow to visit the bathroom, and to occasionally take nourishment. Phone calls went unanswered and mail remained unread. His dreams of Karl and the travelling carnival were the only constant in his life, providing both an escape from the depression that consumed him and entertainment for the long, lonely hours spent cocooned in bed.
Once or twice he had teetered on the doorstep, staring out at the world and trying to work up the courage to take those few steps to the footpath. He’d covered up from head to foot, with sunglasses and a cap to hide all that could be hidden, though it had made little difference, since even completely covered, he still couldn’t force himself into the world beyond his door.