instead of a large slab of nothing , however , im staring at ceiling tiles , the table still parallel to the floor . his hand left powder stains on ned 's sleeve , and he smelled as foul and sweet as flowers on a grave . he kissed me gently on the cheek before i folded into the cab and he gave a sour warning to the driver to take good care of `` his woman . '' the nurse was passing by , and she laughed . he stares back at me , his eyes stormy and dark . 