Pump Two

by J. Cherry

“Oh, Mari. Before we leave, I want to get some advice,” I say, toying with my car keys. “Sure, what’s up?” “Devon has an amazing personality, and we get on so well. A big factor in our friendship is that he hasn’t revealed his face. I know his mask shouldn’t make a difference, but I can’t help but wonder if things will just fizzle out once this is all over.” “Are you worried you won’t be attracted to him?” she asks. “I can assure you that I doubt that’d be a problem.” “No, it’s not that…it’s because this anonymity plays such an important part between us. I dunno, what would you do in my position?” “Oh, I see.” Mari ponders over my words for a moment, placing her tote bag on her shoulder as she stands up. “You’re overthinking it and approaching this way too pessimistically. I mean, why don’t you just ask him to show you his face next time you see him? The whole mask thing seems fun, but maybe as time goes on, you’re both realizing that the mask is becoming pointless. Communicate with him, Vi.” She’s so right. “You’re a genius,” I say, holding the cafe door open for her. “You could’ve totally come to that conclusion yourself.” She laughs softly as we approach my car. “I think you just wanted someone to validate your choices.” “Probably. I also just needed a verbal slap in the face to relax.” “Well, that’s what friends are for, right? One of us spirals about something minor, and the other makes them see sense. Or I could just feed into your delusions.” I let out a sharp laugh...