in the ward

we both breathe this poisonous air
when the campus sleeps
they said i cannot leave
but you didn't get it

it's a cold night and it's best to stay warm:
blinds down, window closed, tucked in
not a soul in the corridors
just your shallow breathing

i still remember your kind words
and can't kick off that guilty feeling
i feel it there, unconfirmed,
there's a liar in the ward

---

a gentle voice awakens me:
dear, you've tested positive