I just need to take a minute here to say that your voice in this is simply incredible. Lines like,

Wanting. Wanting what? Nothing. There is nothing to want.

were so piquant and precise. Also your lack of contraction in, The thought might make him smile, if he could think it clearly, but he cannot. caught me for some reason as just so perfect, right inside the voice of this. You never slip or waver and just this one chapter has been such a pleasure.

Onward!