In the backroom of the old building, the air was warmer; there was an old sofa that seemed to know the shape of two bodies often curled up together, curtains drawn tightly so that only dim beams of spotlight filtered through the cracks. Neil and Lena sat side by side, their bodies pressed together—not by force, but by the choice of two souls seeking closeness to soothe their restless hearts.

Lena closed her eyes, her small head resting peacefully on Neil’s broad shoulder. In the silence, ...