NO

The man who was in front of me in line

At Aroma cafe said no when the cashier asked him if he wants his receipt

And I thought, isn’t he incredible to say NO so easily

Without thinking so much of consent,

offence and defence?

I practiced saying no in my head again and again;

A mantra to protect and reclam that soon became-

“Can I help you?” she said- the woman behind the screen in Aroma,

And all I can say to the smile that met my face is

no.