Summary

Having made it to the clinic, Tessa and Jim see a woman sitting low on a stool in a small space. After joining a line of people waiting to speak with the woman, Jim asks Tessa why they are standing in the line. Tessa has to remind him that he has a wound on his forehead. She looks at it and begins to remember some of the details of the crash. She suggests that they remain patient and see what the “official on the stool has to say” (55). Jim responds by saying “but first” and Tessa answers back “but first” (55).

They leave the line and find an empty toilet. In the cramped space they undress and have sex, all while talking to each about what they are doing and trying not to laugh. Someone knocks on the door and scolds them. Another voice with...