334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrNqmJABrII
334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhnDc7oYRW2
The next day, Jessy doesn't show up to school all day, nor the next day. I'm worried to death for him. Also at the end of class, I will question Amy in order to obtain his address. She gives a little smile which immediately makes me think that she is going to rush to find Chad and tell him but, honestly, I don't care. At this moment, I don't care about my reputation, all that matters is this boy who has already indelibly marked my life and for whom I worry so much. I have to struggle for a little while and make up a crazy story, but in the end, I leave the school with the coordinates in my pocket. Immediately, I went to his house. He lives in an old two story house which has retained its incredible charm, despite the renovation work it has undergone. The paint, a light yellow, was redone recently. It’s just the kind of well kept house my dad likes. This thought makes me smile. A covered terrace, where a bench and two armchairs have been installed, shelters the entrance to the house. I climb the three steps and ring the bell. I don't have to wait long before the door opens for Jessy.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv9FHgndkRr
— I’m not in the mood to worry, he told me point blank.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvEo9xM17Yd
He looks tired, preoccupied. Despite his obvious bad mood, I'm happy to see him. These last two days without seeing him seemed like an eternity. His mother comes up behind him. I can only glimpse it briefly.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQSHIcPZmaA
— It’s for me, mom, he tells her.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKk5UGifTyz
Understanding that he doesn't want to talk to me in front of her, I decide to play on it and, leaning towards him, I whisper to him : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdHfIoGNPYw
— I'll stay until we've talked, and it's too bad if your mother asks me what I want.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMGeSPMguri
His green eyes stare at me, trying to see if I'm bluffing or not, finally, he gives in.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmJhWEYOUep
— Very well, I’m coming.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7c20Ey9wbE
He grabs a denim jacket before following me down the street.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFVD8Mx3wVv
We walk aimlessly, following the roads that pass before us in complete silence. I don't know how to start the discussion, I'm afraid of offending him, or of upsetting him if I question him too much.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX0OxPQ7dKc
— So ? You wanted to talk to me, go ahead ! He says in a bad mood, as we arrive near an abandoned factory.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPyCGpNHwBU
Intimidated, as always by his presence at my side, I take it upon myself to get started : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmv8mbEwDt8
— You haven't come to school for the last two days...334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPD1SDn1hCD
— Oh yes, you noticed, well done ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ447NoZi3FO
— Don’t be sarcastic, please. But you let me down for the presentation ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3GKT7QDLrH
— Oh, and you probably want an apology ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEM9kKfvkjI
— No, I don't care about this duty.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXNelqI5VNr
I use a calm tone so as not to annoy him further.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1pPLSUFGjJ
— Why did you come to see me ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ502Lv9YsAc
He stops walking.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiuEivZeGMN
— I was worried about you.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXdL0nB4vPE
— Well then ! Instead, admit that you want details so you can tell your friends everything afterwards ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaw9Wtru6JG
— I don't plan to tell anyone about it.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOJ1NCy8vhc
He examines me for a long moment, seeming to search deep in my eyes if he can trust me.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDd9vvsrHkD
— How long have you been HIV positive ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjH69Yaqesj
— It's been about a year now.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeDqcko4Xfu
— And how did you catch it ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzkWGjZMcOA
— One evening at a friend’s party, I met a girl…334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK75Bzea0uB
— And you slept together ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXG3LifLz6D
— No, we watched cartoons ! He said, really angry.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjgrSX4jG6c
— She didn’t tell you she was HIV positive ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLy2pAxc8ir
— She didn't know at the time... A doctor called my mother a few weeks later, Haley had taken a test which came back positive. She had informed the doctor that I was one of her partners. I had to go get tested myself and that’s how I learned that she infected me.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNMfKSD857V
— Just for one night you spent together.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlJhElthwLS
I whisper this sentence as if to myself.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7uZRjUPI1y
— Not one night, just a short moment and a lack of condom and this is the result. A word of advice Meg : When you decide to do it with Chad, don't forget the condom otherwise you'll end up like me, a walking corpse ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjWSSawjSjP
— Jessy, stop saying that ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCayEE3kEOq
— For what ? It's the truth ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc3VwONFPwl
— No, you are in good health, it doesn't even look like you have this virus so you have to be optimistic.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡw5bL7T8d3P
— As if that could cure me ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWyHbynkLXC
— Yes, it can help you hold on until the doctors find a cure.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5bByfQz79h
I spoke more firmly than I wanted. Jessy looks at me, surprised.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKUnG2gscz6
— You're right, you have to be positive and enjoy life, right ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxj0XxKBzXb
Suddenly his gaze changes, it becomes darker. He approaches me and takes me by the waist, holding me tightly against his body. I pull away from him immediately, not out of fear of illness, but as I would with any boy who did it this way.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdtiMlpdsYK
— Hey, weird ! You don't want to kiss me anymore ! This surprises me greatly ! Go find your fantastic and healthy boyfriend and leave me alone ! he shouts as he walks away.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeQ6jV6PVPT
— Jessy, you’re wrong, that’s not it ! Come back ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgmy6HHOuq
My words are lost in the silence.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpiw2ZTYeLR
334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI2e9rF7Bgi
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The next morning before classes, which start later today, and where Jessy will certainly still be conspicuous by his absence, I am sitting in a corner of the snack bar. It’s a café where all the young people from high school like to meet for a drink, listen to music and chat. The room is quite large, with its light green imitation leather benches, its silver metal tables and its fifties decoration all in pink and blue. I found Chad there, who is having fun around a pinball machine with his friends a little further away, while I read Jessy's book. In fact, this is the third time I've devoured it since he lent it to me. The story of this man who fights alone against everyone to obtain his freedom after having been condemned in advance by public opinion now takes on a whole new meaning for me. Between these lines, it is Jessy’s life that I see. I can't stop thinking about him, and it drives me crazy. I'm dating Chad, I like Chad. So why do I only think about Jessy's lips on mine ? Why am I so worried about him ? How come I miss him so much ? I have already gone several days without seeing Chad, when he went on vacation with his parents, without ever feeling this emptiness in the pit of my heart. Yet I am in love with him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSltzvVU9yO
Do I like Chad ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJTatz96SaV
Ah, I'm going to go crazy if this continues ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOFIdjqF9Z
I raise my head and look at him, he looks at me and gives me a smile that I have trouble responding to, before he turns his attention back to his friends.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZpPCNuJMBN
Why don't I feel anything when I look at it ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkmdl7EgJjt
Putting my thoughts aside, I carefully dive back into my reading when Amy approaches me. That day, more than ever, I had no desire to talk to him. As I expected, she reported my comments to Chad and, as always, I had to justify myself. Luckily we have this talk to give, it gave me the perfect excuse.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdFixP9kSfz
Amy lifts the cover of my book and whispers : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlPymThXEk6
— Put down that book ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKxTZDygFgX
— It’s a great book ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvc683uTlDB
— I will never understand how you could want to read outside of class, there are so many things334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6WSXoYP8O1
much more exciting to do…334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFYHQ4TPnvo
— Excuse me…334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFK8rwTsFQ
I get up quickly after seeing Jessy passing in the street.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ3dXVB2R4f
Hurriedly, I leave the café.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ZFF0aP4h1
— Jessy ! Wait for me ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡupd6tVcNRk
As usual, he hears me, but continues on his way.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ85uNQss4Kf
— I have your book ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡv94MB3tpsm
This time, I manage to catch his attention, he stops on the sidewalk.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNyMZCJ9WfH
— What do you want from me ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn6Co5rpv5Q
— I just wanted to give that back to you.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxjtbLZPUi
I hand him his paperback, staring at him, my heart rate increasing.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡD9nxJpfVfW
— And then, I wanted us to talk.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFO9s8wUUK3
— I think we said everything. You should go back to your boyfriend.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLIBU9KKkDf
— I don’t want to talk with Chad, but with you.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwaLftSFyGU
— Thank you, that’s a pleasure, says a familiar voice behind me, making me jump.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrZy65AXqwv
I quickly turn around to see my boyfriend.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPrO5WkNKN6
— It's not what you think. But I need to talk to Jessy.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzORCDrwvdp
— We have nothing to say to each other, he repeats.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVVTe6m2ooo
— Glad to hear you say that ! Stop hovering over my girlfriend ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡE3NvXODbYf
— Hey, I’m here, Chad ! You don't have to speak on my behalf and even less tell me who I can talk to or not ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbftagmcMi5
— There, I agree with you, replies Jessy.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdCKZ6BsrNI
— We didn't ask you anything ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1gRAoXlrIZ
— Leave him alone ! It’s me who wants to talk to him ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOqMTME7XFd
— Are we having a threesome now ? Chad angrily grabs my arm.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDt1X53Djpl
He squeezes it tightly and takes me with him towards the snack bar.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPmQ3ebvjpF
— Let me go, I demand, trying to get out of his grip. You're ridiculous ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVwp7VG15Jx
Chad tightens his grip further.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtvmHkbr8aq
— I just want to talk to you.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡugrMgjL8On
— So let go of me, you’re hurting me ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9gTYi31OmZ
— Let her go ! Jessy demands, interposing.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvmLzc3NTdy
— Don't get involved ! My boyfriend shouts, finally releasing my sore arm before pushing Jessy along the wall of the establishment.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡORO7GDKlVr
— Don’t hit me, Jessy warned.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmNOl9lqBuG
— Ah, Monsieur gives more orders, says Chad angrily, putting his fist in the young man's stomach.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0cS2gIXOtV
In shock, Jessy doubles over, dropping his book.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzfztIJdwrd
— Chad, stop ! I scream in the middle of the street.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU9E3q7EXaW
Jessy, still hunched over, rushes at Chad and knocks him to the ground. He finds himself straddling him, trying to keep him on the ground while asking him to calm down. But you don't know Chad very well to think that he's going to let himself be controlled so easily. Soon they are rolling on the sidewalk, almost falling onto the road. Chad finds himself on top of Jessy and punches him in the stomach again. Then he stands up, waiting for Jessy to get up. When he gets back to his feet, he spreads his hands in a sign of appeasement, but Chad rushes at him again and hits him in the cheek.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ54MkocuWl
— Chad ! Leave him ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN7agHJNeCM
Jessy picks up his book and walks away, but Chad comes at him again and hits him in the back. Jessy falls to his knees as Chad walks around to face him and grabs him by the collar of his T-shirt.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHgLelgMytQ
No matter how much I beg him, Chad doesn't listen to me. I am about to betray my promise when, fortunately, two police officers intervene to separate them, surrounding them.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgnSKmhc8kg
Jessy immediately regains his calm while Chad continues to struggle in order to continue the fight.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI8FTV8PVE4
— What is happening here ? Asks the officer holding Jessy.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkTnyqTsbav
— This guy is hitting on my girlfriend, Chad shouts, still annoyed.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFnuqbXn6kI
— Anything ! I shout angrily. Jessy is a friend and there’s no way you’re going to forbid me from talking to him ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRRsduUEx7V
My boyfriend stares at me in astonishment while I think I see recognition in Jessy's eyes. This has the gift of calming Chad who lets his arms fall while blowing.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnFnPQfa2nz
— Can we let go of you ? Asks the second police officer.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKfIzW40ATk
Both boys nodded weakly.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡffyYDaAp6q
— It’s not over yet, Chad says, staring at Jessy, before heading back to the snack bar.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡevr3PTcqR1
— It'll be OK ? Asks the other agent. He hurt you, do you want to go to the hospital ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhPAPyXbUbY
Jessy's complexion suddenly turned pale.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNg4m4ZnzIg
— No, it’s okay.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyBECoCTClb
— I’ll take care of him, I intervene, moving closer to him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaaWPbbJov4
With a knowing look, the two police officers walk away.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdYaOxSc6oQ
— Thank you, Jessy sighs.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpecEApJPp
— You seemed panicked at the idea of going to the hospital.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ90N3m0DNQr
— Yeah, I'm not a big fan of it. I've already just left my doctor's office, I'm not going to spend the rest of my day on a stretcher.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJ83j3g4Rj
I pick up his book and give it back to him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpJXjPO70fK
— Do you want to talk now ? I ask.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOhomAYRfgb
Jessy purses his lips.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmfFz0KynWL
— You never give up ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkRF8XVtM6N
— It depends on the subject but when it’s something important to me, no, I never give up.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtL38TUzWPx
Jessy seems touched by my words, he lowers his head and nods, pursing his lips.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGwSDGMUsP6
Without even asking him if he plans to go to class this morning, we head towards his house.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2cqCyb44TG
— Did you like the book ? He finally asked after a long silence.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1WlWOlleN2
— I devoured it ! I'll have to buy a copy.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEnRn9w9vUO
His smile is radiant when he tells me : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrKpSJJerf6
— I'm glad you liked it. You're the first person I've told about this.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6LLxLexIam
I take advantage of this confidence to try to learn more.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QG51TyHKn
— You told me you went to the doctor, are you okay ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0nYqdw0oB6
— My doctor told me that apart from being HIV positive, I am in great shape. She will do regular blood tests to monitor how the virus is progressing and has also encouraged me to join a support group of people who have the same problem as me, he tells me as he stops walking.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4GCBqdBzy4
I meditate on his words for a few seconds, I know how important the subject is and I definitely don't want to focus on it.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgyMhlAz6WA
— I think you should try going to one of these meetings. After all, what are you risking ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNpsHoKZ1jp
He raises his face to the sky and observes a cloud which moves slowly, pushed by a light wind.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXX7x08dSp2
— Maybe you're right.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPm7wEIo1Q2
Satisfied with his answer, I leave him in front of his house. As I head back home, I'm torn between the pleasure of being closer to Jessy and the anger that overcomes me when I think of Chad. I know this situation has gone on for too long.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAZVzf4kycp
334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwhCb5qnJP5
334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDiiLNRcaD5
I had barely crossed the threshold of my house when my mother told me that Chad was waiting for me in the garden.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ57ZNuTOCCH
— Neither of you have been to class and Chad looks upset, she said. What's going on, Megan ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsuJ1O37JNs
— I'm sorry, mom. I should have warned you. Chad and Jessy fought before we went to high school. Chad crossed the line, Jessy is hurt, and believe me, he really didn't need this.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPIULmRRguu
My mother examines me carefully. I'm not going to lie, along the way I thought about how events unfolded and the more I think about it, the more my anger grows.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuVkyu7xjJ9
— And this fight happened because of how you feel about Jessy ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKtvh2Viwc8
I agree, nodding my head.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmMzcVYMk3A
— Now, do you know what you are doing ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCIQbXABbCe
— Yes, even if it is painful, I can no longer hide my face.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡekwRnH4ZXk
My mother gives a little knowing smile.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUYYVFR5AcS
— GOOD. I don't like it when you skip school, but this time, I'm giving up. You will go to class this afternoon. In the meantime, go and sort this situation out. Good luck.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN8u2PiHxhL
334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxMWrldEbsz
334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa8uSyWZfrR
Chad is pacing around the yard when I open the back door of the house to join him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7bjO4tzSC
— Finally you're here ! Were you with him ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtumBtaJOvd
The tone of his voice is icy. If he thinks I'm going to let him talk to me like that, he's sorely mistaken.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkqDkNfChLc
— Remind me, when did we get married ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6dqz5BgQfq
— Pardon ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdCGvBufnjr
— No, because the reason you're acting like an incredible asshole is because we've been married for years and you think I'm your property, right ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡymYnNLQG1i
Chad puts his hand to his forehead and bursts out into mirthless laughter.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG5VYVKWpJ7
— I should have known you were going to take his side. Damn, Meg, you don't realize this guy is manipulating you to separate us ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLAnazDTUO7
If until now I had managed to keep calm, his words made me lose all control.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsDYGvt3wqP
— But you are completely delusional ! I'm not your thing, I'm free to do what I want ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9mAaOuzdG3
— Like sleeping with him ! ? He writes to himself, clenching his fists.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB6JW7fp85i
— I'm not going out with him ! I scream. And I'm not going out with you anymore ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvaOdW1FYgO
In shock, he takes two steps back.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9qjuaRy3AY
— What ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7bwOW7qN9D
— You understood me very well. It's over Chad.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbcb6xrTOzf
— He succeeded then ? He wanted to separate us and you become his accomplice.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpzBmJUqAZd
This time it’s me who’s in shock. Where did he get such an idea ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6SCu6uAkiB
— No, but do you hear yourself ? I'm talking to you about us, not Jessy. He never even suggested that I break up with you, even after you hit him earlier.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ1h029eqRq
— You're not going to make me believe that it's enough for you to realize that you don't love me anymore.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIwspBW2aaG
— Since we have been together, I have asked myself a lot of questions, I admit, going to sit down on a chair in the garden furniture. We have nothing in common. I know that I annoy you when I talk to you about literature and you annoy me when I try to share a moment with you and you are so captivated by a match on TV that you don't care.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP5vO0B1EQP
Chad opens his mouth to respond but remains silent.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5bWjI3Ie4R
— You know I’m right, I insist calmly. You and I have known each other since we were kids, we have always been friends and I think we should have stayed that way.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL47Wlv4IaQ
He takes a deep breath as his eyes water.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ997xozeFYc
— So you don’t love me anymore ? he whispers.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFdyEYL66MY
— Yes I love you but, contrary to what I thought, I realized that I am not in love with you. I love you as a friend, not as the man of my life.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFALXnYWVV6
— And did you realize how you felt, before or after falling in love with Jessy ? He get angry again. It’s not over Meg ! I'm sure this guy is hiding something and trust me I'll find out what it is ! You will come back to me Meg ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡg8EjH94jpl
— Chad ! Chad ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU1QzJaHha3
But it's too late, he's already slammed the door behind him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ntT5EvPVp
I feel relieved to finally have been able to put into words what had bothered me since the beginning of our story, but I am also worried at the thought of Chad discovering Jessy's secret. I hope his threats are out of anger and that after he calms down he will realize their stupidity.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjcLsRgY4jM
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In the afternoon, I head back to school and smile as soon as I see Jessy arriving in the main hallway.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡa3T9NmJOQu
— You’ve decided to come back, I comment.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHo4dWdqcPz
— Yeah, I don’t want Chad to think he’s got the upper hand on me, he replies as we walk down the hall towards our class.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ68wbOKe5uh
— Good choice. But I need to talk to you.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ50uE2sqdtm
Without waiting, I pull him by his jacket away from the crowd of students and lead him into a corner near the boys' bathroom. I don't want anyone to hear our exchange.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhGYOXN7xC1
— What is happening ? He asks me, frowning.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUOM3MMqnC1
— Chad was at my house when I got home.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVVlmUG8q8J
— Okay, he says slowly.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoiYSYtDrY1
— I broke up with him, I admit abruptly.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCYUFn2GShD
His already piercing gaze locks on mine and never lets go. I wish I could drown in it but I only have a short time before the bell rings.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEOE7ImLIdm
— He is very angry with you. He thinks you made me dump him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ZLAjPZSE4
— I have never done that ! He writes to himself, shocked.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFTdRHQpQdS
— I know that perfectly, but I think he's looking for someone to blame for our breakup, when there's no one to blame. We're not meant for each other, that's all. Anyway, he told me you're hiding something and he's going to find out what it is. So be careful, okay ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPvlHHE5gh2
— Yeah.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ937hH9CIY9
He leans against the wall behind him and whispers, with tears in his eyes : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMX7pJBUQry
— I don't want it to start again like in my old school, I couldn't stand it.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHdcxjCCl2
Seeing him abandon his armor in favor of sincerity upsets me beyond words. In these moments of fragility, I meet the real Jessy, not the one who takes a cold attitude to send me away but the sensitive boy who has suffered too much.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ474pqoriJt
— That won’t happen, I reassure him. You are not alone here, I am your friend, I will always be here no matter what happens.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDF0Z8fe4qS
— Thanks Meg. I thought about what you told me earlier, about the support group for HIV— positive people. I called my doctor to ask for the contact details of the center.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRGKaDVgJMX
— Great, I smile. It will help you to talk with people who have the same virus as you, you will certainly be able to help each other.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsQRGjWhXHJ
— I don’t really believe it, but I’m going to try to go to a meeting, he said, resuming a distant attitude. So maybe you'll let go of me a little ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWvPo7d982z
The bell which announces the resumption of classes interrupts our discussion.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNkNOFHWacN
— Here, I said, handing him my notes. That way you'll be up to date on math.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzYxsjjwEQa
— Thanks Megan. Sometimes it’s good to have you in my life ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmu3FoMmsg1
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The last bell announcing the end of the day has barely sounded before a rumor invades the establishment. I'm putting my things in my locker when I hear whispers about Jessy. I turn to him who is standing a little further away in front of his locker. He lowers his head, shoulders hunched and lips pursed.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhtcW3VukzF
Around us, the students murmur among themselves, stunned. At the time, AIDS was still a little— known disease; we were only in the early stages of medical research. There are lots of rumors about how and why this disease spreads, but the truth is that people still know very little about it. The only things we know for sure are that AIDS is scary and deadly. All eyes are fixed on Jessy, those who pass behind him move aside to make sure not to touch him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡF1OlEn2eGz
A student I vaguely know passes in front of me, I intercept him to ask him what this new rumor is.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIICb0qcy6j
— You are not aware ? Jessy Sutter, the new student, he has AIDS and what's more, he's homosexual ! He announces to me proudly. Above all, don't go near him, you never know.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwbd1cWTb7y
I don't have time to send him away, he's already moved away.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVYzNTxDQXS
I look at Jessy again. He raises his head, fixes me with a burning look of anger before leaving the school as quickly as possible.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKeScahBNn7
I do not understand anything. How can everyone know ? One thing is certain, given Jessy's fury, he thinks I betrayed him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfHRh3aJdZi
I rush after him but when I get outside, he has already disappeared.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnso2Zlegae
334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbMJ5Ox7ofM
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After looking for Jessy all over town for what seemed like hours, imagining him alone, depressed, I gathered up my courage and went to his house. The door opens to reveal his mother.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡanAMaskj9f
— Hello, she greets me kindly.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYbnXsm7rQv
From the first glance, I feel that she is an understanding woman. Her long blond hair and green eyes identical to those of her son reflect the gentleness that I also detect in Jessy.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtwtVOaqA26
— Good morning. Is Jessy there ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqlofCbcmoz
— No. You're Megan, right ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEPWIFMb1n7
I nod in agreement.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcZACIbvE9g
— Jessy told me about you.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4L07JzYJds
— I've been looking for him everywhere since school ended, hasn't he come back ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqYkoRYi4WJ
— No, I have not seen it. He must be walking somewhere now that everyone knows Jessy is infected.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlqTfd6kpFt
I look at her, surprised that she was able to guess, she continues : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwNAt8TJGdJ
— I received a call from the school. Apparently, parents of students learned of the rumor and immediately reported it to the school administration. I am called this evening to talk about my son's state of health and to see if he can continue his education in this establishment.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn5HwQXmbqD
— My God, this is nonsense ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhnu23VYGzC
— Unfortunately that's what happens when people know Jessy has AIDS. Everywhere he goes, he is rejected. This has happened before in Allentown, and it's happening again here. Everyone is afraid of being contaminated by simple contact, even my husband can't stand living under the same roof as him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGyNNzCrtxi
Mrs. Sutter shakes her head as if her thoughts could evaporate with that gesture.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡofi3KrM86w
— It is so unfair. I need to talk to him. Contrary to what he thinks, I did not betray him. I don't know how his secret was revealed. You don't know where he might be ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMhR7kOLZ3d
— He sometimes leaves alone for hours.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbG5qU6Rpfb
— You are never afraid that he…334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6jscgw8BVQ
Mrs. Sutter looks at me as if to say, “Would that be worse than what awaits him ?”334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡREEBMZL7Gx
I thank her and go home, totally dejected. Not only do all students now have to know about Jessy's condition, but even the administration is threatening not to keep him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHfbTJwiPzB
When I walk through the door of my house, night begins to fall. I hear my parents talking.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpXMTkJ5M1u
— Meg, it’s you ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6O460MFmKk
— Yes Dad.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡyiIqe0GvxW
— Can you come ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlUORv6uOMO
I walk down the hallway and into the kitchen, where my parents are sitting around the table.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXX0t3BSoEf
— Nina told us what is being said around town about Jessy. Is it true ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfxQyerLJr3
I nod silently.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaDlgoZHOhn
— How long have you known that ? Ask my mother.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡROscm8CRx8
— Since the other evening, when he stayed to eat. He admitted it to me when I took him home.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsa178w1KD4
— You could have told us about it ! My father points out.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5cY2J9rqYT
— I told him I wouldn't tell anyone. I didn't want to break my word...334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiyAgMqga61
— Then how…334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWoF7g0O594
— You can believe me mom, I keep asking myself that question. I only see one answer : Chad. This afternoon, he was very upset with Jessy and promised to find his secret. However, I don't know how he found out about it.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ71vYFzh3d
— Is it true that Chad fought with Jessy because you wanted to talk to him ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiKR8NTD1Rd
I nod.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdTmOroVuTd
— Chad wanted to force me into the snack bar, Jessy intervened to defend me.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡorJinugRuT
My response makes my father clench his fists and he says : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKTFl1XZRfN
— He loses nothing by knowing what I think of his way of fighting like that and the rest.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ52OeEpoS9q
— Are you aware that Mrs. Sutter has been summoned to high school ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeGgvexOoiX
In front of my parents' questioning looks, I tell them the words of Jessy's mother.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5Jqg4LrJaB
My mother makes a few phone calls and tells us : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYM4C4PBM0r
— The parents’ council is meeting this evening with the administration. Officially, they can't fire Jessy because he's sick, but they can send a report to the academy who will judge what to do in such a circumstance.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6UFBe7LWJx
Seeing my dismayed face, my father said to me : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6qOTqcaeMW
— Don’t worry, darling. We will go to this meeting and we will support Ms. Sutter. It will be fine.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK4edeaKoyT
Less convinced than my father, I go into the garden and sit on the swing. Alone with my thoughts, I realize that I have suddenly aged. Before I met Jessy, I was a carefree kid with few worries, but now I see life differently. And to think that it’s only been ten days since Chad’s party. I wanted to become an adult, I'm served ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbFn5PjFx6s
Jessie, where are you ? I sigh, mulling over the latest events. I don't hear Nina open the back door.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4A7mfeIjmk
— I was wondering where you were, she says, making me jump. The parents are out, Chad is there. He wants to see you.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4rqbNQDKPy
I sigh again. After what happened this afternoon, I still don't want to talk to him. But he doesn't wait to hear my opinion before following my sister who, feeling the storm brewing in the sky as much as with my ex-boyfriend, slips away.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNYoDg5bNuD
— I came to apologize for my behavior this morning. If I had known Jessy was gay, I wouldn't have been jealous of you talking to him.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpkXTCy8zbZ
I huff, exasperated. Chad looks at me, I see the incomprehension on his face.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQq58sAoWnr
— He is not homosexual. It was a girl who infected him ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpv4LlbcaaB
— Sorry, but how could I have known ? You don't tell me anything anymore ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkjOz3bZyhK
— Sorry, but when someone tells me a secret, I do my best to keep it. Were you the one who revealed Jessy's illness to everyone ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQOY5a70vM7
His false innocent appearance betrays him even before he confesses. I think I see a little boy having done something stupid with his hands in his pants pockets, squirming for words. Even when we were children, he behaved this way. His attitude makes my anger explode.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAczPwECcIp
— It's about time you grew up, Chad ! You are so immature at times ! Do you realize that now everyone knows about their state of health ? That he might be kicked out of school ? That you're ruining his life ? But no, you don’t care as long as you make him pay for my breakup ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2zpxpc30Wh
Annoyed, he lowers his head. This attitude annoys me even more.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGjuQh7hgyw
— I know, I screwed up. But if you had told me everything...334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtgcMxVeFNq
I give him a murderous look. He's old enough to know how to behave.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVaJZlOxINR
— Don’t ever ask me why I broke up with you again ! If you want to have an answer, look at yourself in the mirror... That is, if you can ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡueREoC3pPX
— You don't even realize that since he arrived in town, you have completely ignored me ! Chad gets angry in turn.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡW4RpKhIyP6
— It’s nothing to do with it ! I'm the guilty one, the one who understood that we are too different. Jessy had nothing to do with our relationship ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2IMkkecTLO
— I know, he whispers. I heard him say it this afternoon.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6iCDkWpjj6
My eyes must be as round as saucers because Chad continues : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqe1o4IZvFN
— I was behind the bathroom door when you were talking. I heard your conversation, that’s how I knew.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDw3zGXe8X
— Oh my God ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIwjpoUZyvZ
With tears in my eyes, I place my hands over my mouth.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTmfQE2qwbe
— I’m sorry Meg. I didn't want things to go this far.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGiKBmiDufN
— And you rushed to repeat it to the whole school ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoqr7nNXuk9
— I only told a few friends but it spread quickly. I really blame myself.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOnPW2dWIS0
My eyes filled with tears, I whisper : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWvnxBwuDtF
— You can.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhOuaXaAYw9
— You’ll never want me again after this, will you ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmjRv3sStRe
I shake my head.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjtJD1K6q3s
— You disappointed me a lot, Chad. You are still my friend but I no longer trust you. I'm sorry.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1CrL0QfEP3
— You don’t have to be, it’s my fault. I went way too far. The role of the jealous boyfriend doesn't work for me, he smiles sadly. Do you want us to remain friends ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLqeRa6OQ2I
I nod in agreement. I know that after digesting these events, I will forgive him. I can't not have him in my life, he's been part of it for too long.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWoHnQFWoLW
Chad is about to enter the house again when, turning around, he says to me : 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqInyMfMJX3
— By the way, if you're looking for Jessy, it seems he hangs out near the bridge over the highway.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl5hI9n0wZ2
As soon as Chad leaves, I put on my black parka and head in the direction he told me. Night has now fallen, the air is heavy, the storm threatens to break out at any moment. I hurry the three kilometers, running half the way. I arrive on the bridge, out of breath, but happy to see Jessy there. It is a narrow bridge, reserved for pedestrians, it allows us to reach a corner of the forest which encircles the city. Jessy paces along the steel guardrail, watching the cars and trucks speeding by on the dual carriageway just below. His face is half lit by the streetlights placed all along the highway. He turns to me as I approach.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡayNr4AibxU
— What are you doing here ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiTL1ZNzPPg
His tone is dry.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCN7vl9RSfc
— I've been looking for you for hours.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ29U1RMJ8Ez
— Well, you found me. You see, I'm still alive, you can go back now.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAFtPkGgQPR
— I'm sorry for what happened. I discussed it with Chad, he was the one who spread the rumor.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ94Ry8X9zTK
— So you came so that I could forgive him ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNaoeMyeiNr
I look at him, incredulous; However, I have to admit that he is not entirely wrong. I wish we could all be friends, but I know that is a utopian vision of our friendship. However, even if she is often embarrassing for his interlocutors, I like Jessy's frankness.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80BdbqjUwd
— I came because I'm afraid for you. It's late, come home with me.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaYkjFwmR3j
Jessy looks at me with a disillusioned look but doesn't answer. He starts walking along the railing again, moving away from me. He seems hypnotized by the vehicles passing beneath our feet.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbgQT07gUCy
— Ever since I’ve known you, you’ve spent your time moving away. Why are you running away from everyone ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpxvJFT22J
I shout to cover the sound of a heavy truck passing below.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWlFclX1L9e
Suddenly a lightning bolt tears through the sky. Jessy turns around angrily.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdFy3YvvQF8
— I'm not running away from anyone ! It's the others who never want me ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnXjGoKtgxf
He sits on the railing which is only a few centimeters wide, passes his legs over the air, wraps them around the metal bars. A new flash of lightning illuminates the sky. Despite the heaviness of the night, I tremble and move closer to him to hold him by the back of his jacket.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEBBw3k0LdO
— Jessy, please. Come back ! You're scaring me ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhFhQjmhYMr
— I'm a danger to others, Meg ! I'm just on reprieve from this crap ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEVe8oYXq4f
The tone of his voice is no longer charged with anger, but full of despair. It squeezes my heart.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOQ4KomnyHr
— No ! You are not a risk to anyone ! And you are still here, alive and well ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPgnUXNaFAS
Thunder suddenly cracks, startling me. I move closer to him and tighten my grip.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUBdIvbjuxU
— Do you want to know what brought me here ? He says to me, letting go of the railing with his hands.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTOKpPvIkfa
He opens his arms wide, closes his eyes and falls forward, screaming in rage. Despite my efforts to hold him, his leather jacket slips through my fingers and I let go.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfZEed0fctg
— Jessy, no ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfPWZ6ec0qL
I scream as loud as I can as I see him fall into the void.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡY8nZVqd0xx
I put my hands to my mouth while closing my eyes, not daring to open them because I am so sure that he has thrown himself under the wheels of the vehicles passing underneath. And then I suddenly realize that I care about him much more than I wanted to admit to myself until now. Yes, he's HIV positive, angry at the whole world and he spends a lot of time telling me off and yet, without knowing why yet, I can't help but think about him every minute. Suddenly, I hear him scream again at the same time as thunder cracks near us. I slowly open my eyes to see him hanging by his legs above the void. With a quick movement, he manages to stand up, then sit down again on the railing before coming back to my side. I admire his flexibility as I breathe with relief. He rushes straight towards me angrily.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHMQRPCxza6
— I'm going to die, Meg, my life expectancy is so low that it's not worth living ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXkkJAe9GUZ
His voice is thick with anger and despair.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnm49dB3ckL
— No, I said, crying. You're not sick and you may never be sick, but you have to keep breathing, keep fighting this shit ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡz99Og1AIlK
— To do what ? What awaits me in this cursed life ? Everyone will start turning their backs on me again, whispering in my way, being afraid of me.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6cunUU7WGl
Do you think that’s what it’s like to live ? 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoYDoFRJEv6
He points to the highway.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPN1X0BB7vS
— AIDS has already made me fall into a void, vehicles have already crushed me. And none of your prayers or hopes can save me ! he shouts.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdggNObQviD
My tears increase in the face of my helplessness. Jessy is going to die, it's just a matter of time and, in this second, I am fully aware of it.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeoLwsQnfpy
— This virus is circulating inside me and nothing anyone says or does to me will make it go away ! I will have to live the little time I have left carrying this burden alone ! I can't, I can't take this anymore. Reliving what I experienced in Allentown is beyond my strength ! 334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ71vmA04Gjz
He lowers his arms, weariness written on each of his features. Cries that he has had to repress many times flood his face. I go to snuggle up against him, immediately his arms embrace me.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ54A1WlAjzI
— I’m here, you’re no longer alone. I'm here Jessy, I repeat to him several times, hoping that my words penetrate his bruised heart.334Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUP5RDOreT
Above us the storm calms down as the rain unleashes, mixing our tears with those of the sky.
Penana
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