Flashback, Part 1: Peter Says Hi

Flashback: A Short Story in Six Parts.


Part 1: Peter Says Hi

He was standing in line in the express line at the Whole Foods, preparing to pay for the dinner (eight pieces of to-go sushi) that he was too lazy to make himself (he probably wouldn't have made sushi himself, but he certainly wasn't cooking anything at all for dinner), when out of the corner of his eye he noticed that someone was standing near him, a little inappropriately given the circumstances. He looked up to see the face of Peter, a friend with whom he’d lost contact quite a few years ago.

Peter didn't appear to remember his name, because if he had he probably would have, well, used it. But there was Peter, taking the initiative to say hi (although again, given the factual circumstances, that phrase isn't the most accurate), which was good, seeing as he was totally oblivious to the world around him. David, Peter's boyfriend, apparently remained at the checkout watching as their purchases got rung up.

Pleasantries were exchanged once they both realize that yes, they did actually know each other and the awkward "Do I know you?" game was averted:

"Hey! What's up?"

"Not much, just thought I recognized you so I came by...."

"Yeah, it's been, like, forever!"

"I don't even remember the last time we hung out!"

[Doodly-doo! Doodly-doo! Doodly-doo!]

But he does. In fact, he does remember, all too well, the last time he saw Peter.

[Part 2]