Categorically Unsafe by Rachel Dull
Danny is a boy, which makes him categorically unsafe. We met at Jill's 17th birthday party where he talked about sex and drugs from personal experience and was louder than anyone with whom I would voluntarily associate. He clutched at my arm while offering me a swig from his flask, making it clear he didn't subscribe to the idea of 'personal space' and was willing to share saliva. At that moment I decided we should be friends. I would use him to free me from my worldly ignorance if he agreed to let me love him unconditionally. “How have you survived this far in life without being eaten alive?� Danny asked. But he left the party with my number on the back of his hand and I knew our mutual education had begun.
Rachel Dull is a professional data manager, classic over-thinker, and zealous friend. At last, her creative writing degree from the University of Michigan Residential College makes sense, though the math minor still does not. Her work has previously appeared in Hoot Review. Accompanying photo by Anthony Easton