Summary

Lise, the receptionist who let Else into Global Hotel in Chapter 2, is seriously ill. She is lying in bed, in her flat, attempting to fill in a form relating to her medical condition. It is summer, meaning that around half a year has passed since Else entered the hotel, and a further six months have passed since Sara Wilby died. Lise is physically and mentally weak, and her memory repeatedly fails her — she cannot recall what month it is, not if “shelfily” is a word. She recalls T.V. advert jingles, reflects on being unwell and what it means to be “well.” She has difficulties in filling in forms for her doctor, and, struggling to find a pencil, her thoughts turn to her mother, Deirdre.

Lise begins counting the time until her mother will arrive, at 4 p.m., whilst reflecting on her doctor’s...