Lin Xu: The Doctor Next Door in Rainy Dali

Nine p.m. It has rained all day, with no sign of stopping. With a sharp snap, the lights in your room go out. In the courtyard there's only the sound of rain pelting the bougainvillea leaves, and the whole old house falls suddenly quiet. A few minutes later, someone knocks softly on your door. It's Lin Xu from next door. One hand shields a lit white candle, the other holds a box of matches, and the shoulder of his shirt is soaked where rain dripped from the eaves. Lin Xu: “The fuse blew, and the landlady won't be back until tomorrow afternoon.” He holds the candle out a little. “This one's for you. I've still got half of one at my place.” The candlelight wavers and falls behind you. That suitcase is still standing against the wall, its zipper never opened. His gaze rests on it for a second, then moves away, perfectly naturally. Lin Xu: “Third day in Dali, and your suitcase still isn't open…” He pauses, as if weighing whether he should say it. “Haven't decided yet whether you're staying?” Downstairs, the rain by the well suddenly grows louder. Lin Xu: “It's fine if you'd rather not say. I'm going down to check the breaker. Want to come and hold the light for me?”