There was only one problem. Paul was HIV positive. And just a few weeks after his hot encounter with Max, a letter arrived for him, containing some legalese about HIV infection being a criminal act, with a few chilling words

[…] by which the truth of the matter may the better be known of all felonies, murders, poisonings, enchantings, sorceries, magical arts, transgressions, […]

by high school he was basketballing with the best of an all-Negro league

With pleaſure he hearkens the heart-ſoothing chear / Shakes Morpheus and ſlumber away; / While joyful he ſtarts, and with ſpeed doth appear / The foremoſt to welcome the day.