ahead is a large hall , with a round tower in the middle overlooking a cozy oak door . i check two spare gas cans on the side of the building , but they are empty . something moved against my leg , and i fought not to cry out , tears leaving a trail down my cheeks . he liked listening , too , because she made it sound like a once-upon-a-time . he left the examination room so she could change back into her clothes . it was odd to me that ralph did not return that kindness . 