The Boy on the Bridge

by Sam Mariano

“Imagine Valerie Johnson is on fire. Literally being consumed by flames. She’s screaming in torment, her cries for help hurt your ears. You’re standing right next to her in perfect health, but feeling mildly thirsty. I happen to be in possession of the only glass of water in the world.” He gives me a look as if to say, are you following me? “I walk right past her to give you the water, because I care more about quenching your thirst than saving her life.”