DAY ZERO

      Zero, because it's December 31st today, and I've just come home from grocery shopping with a housemate to find a note on the kitchen table. Jim, our latest renter has tested positive for COVID-19. We have to sterilize surfaces and/or get our affairs in order. I have trouble assimilating this new information; can't concentrate on simple tasks. There's anger present, and resentment, and resignation. Jim has left his debit card & PIN on the table. He too will need someone to do his shopping for him. …Too much information.
     Jim works for Amazon. He's a Social Distancer. …Takes the temperature of workers as they enter the facilities. There's been a slight outbreak. It was almost bound to happen.
     Bat & I cook our food quickly and take it downstairs to eat in relative safety. Joel wears his hazmat mask. An air intake vent is in Jim's room. How long before we all get it? The landlord will assume some responsibility. At first we look for hotels to take Jim. No can do. Another bad idea anyway.
     We shall see in the coming days if it is possible to remain unaffected by coronavirus in the same house when one of us is already compromised. What else can we do?