The corners of Rashad's mouth draw inexorably downward into a trembling, exaggerated frown as he gives a little nod. There is no sympathy in her question, but perhaps there is vindication in showing her that she has truly failed to form more than the most rudimentary understanding of him.

"Not entirely," reiterates Janan, seeking to limit the information Iman can take away from his outburst.

Rashad grimaces and shakes his head, ignoring the increasingly tight grip of one of her feet on his neck. "I was not always...this," he points out, the last word filled with unexpected venom.