I like how you talk about masks to start this poem. Using that image helps tell the reader that these two people have another identity that they are concealing. Seeing these relationships develop, seeing them slowly unveil themselves, often becomes a theatrical performance.
I have a few minor suggestions that I'll offer for your consideration. Using the word doused in the first line of the third stanza does provide a feel for how the stress of the situation envelopes both people. I think you could substitute that word for another that reinforces the idea of concealment to go along with the theme that you establish with the masks in the first stanza. The word doused sets up the idea of being covered, but not necessarily concealed.
I also think you could make the last two couplets one quatrain. I think that those lines could all go together as far as the overall idea of the piece is concerned.
I hope that those suggestions are helpful. I enjoyed reading this one.
A lot of people now a days are trapped within this particular predicament. A very well written and articulate poem. Great work. A riveting write and read. :)
This was a wonderful poem with a full story told. I've only one question: If such an opportunity exists for that potential happiness, why keep discreet when both parties desire to give it a shot? After all, it may prove worth it in the end. Excellent piece of writing Kate, I enjoyed it.