Page 31

A little later, Oskar and Eli have moved into an apartment in another city and covered over the windows. Eli has paid for one month's rent, as well as a supply of groceries for Oskar. Oskar, whose mother taught him to cook, has just cooked and eaten a hearty meal and is looking forward to the first of a long succession of nights kissing and cuddling with Eli.

Eli, who has been watching him eat, finally says, "I'd love to have joined you, Oskar, but, as you know, unlike you I can't eat anything except human blood without throwing up. Oh, and speaking of blood, Oskar, I'm starting to get hungry again."

"Well, happy hunting, Eli," says Oskar. "I'll see you when you get back. Oh, and from now on, please wipe the blood off your lips before you kiss me. Unlike you, Eli, I'm not overly fond of the taste of blood."

Eli takes a deep breath and then says, "Oskar, this may come as a surprise to you, but I really don't like killing people. Håkan, my ex who posed as my father, used to supply me with blood. He didn't like killing people either, but he did it because he loved me. Lately, though, he became less intelligent than he used to be and started making mistakes. You're much smarter than he ever was; so you should have no trouble providing for me. Would you be willing to do it just for me?"

If you want Oskar to comply with Eli's request, turn to page 32.

Otherwise, turn to page 38.