Her words are few, but it takes longer for their implication to wash over me. Negative. My brain struggles to transpose the literal meaning to the intended one, "negative" being a positive result. I exhale again. I'm relieved, but not elated like I'd expected. There's no justification, no feeling of being above reproach from HIV. If anything, I must become more aware, vigilant and accountable.

On my way out, I dip my hand in the bowl balancing on the stair railing and pocket a few more condoms.

Have you been tested?