"what had once been his worst fear"

Fyodor had lost count of how many days he'd been in prison. He'd never cared much for it, if he had to be honest, but counting was a way to keep himself entertained.

In fact, no other prisoners were interested in engaging in a conversation with him. There were only a few other people in his side of Meursault, and most of them were physically far from him. He didn't mind the silence, it gave him time to enjoy the company of himself and his thoughts.

***

Or, while in prison, Fyodor has the time to think about he, Nikolai, and the feelings he has for him.