Page 62 of Two Guys, a Girl, and a Tripod

“So what’s the confession?”

“He wants to apologize.” I bite my lip and look down at my shoes, unable to meet Natalie’s eyes. “So I said I’d see him on Tuesday.” When I look up again, she’s scowling. That's understandable. “He’s got my painting from the other night!”

“You and I could do the same thing at home for cheaperandwe could drink more because we’d already be home.” She turns and continues the hike.

“Remember when I said I’m following my gut?” I ask, trying to keep up.

“You’re following something,” I hear her mutter. “But I think it’s a little lower.”

“Sigh, Nat.”

“Did you justsaythe word sigh?” She laughs. Either her annoyance at my forgiving a man I just met is forgotten or I’m just that funny. I choose both.

“Yes, I did. I didn’t think an actual sigh would be enough.” Were I standing still, I’d cross my arms. Instead, I continue swinging them as we walk, trying to give myself some momentum. “Your prejudice against men isn’t enough to influence me.”

“Oh fine, but at least let me do another emergency call. Just in case.”

“Deal.”

My phone rings on the way home.

“It’s Lance,” I say with a hint of surprise.

“What is it with you and these disrespectful men?” Natalie grumbles as she spins the steering wheel, turning just as the light changes to red.

I ignore her and press the button to answer the call, lifting the phone to my ear.

“Hello?”

“Hey Honey, hope it’s ok that I called,” says Lance. I can hear the worry in his voice. He clearly knows he screwed up the other day.

“Sure, what’s up?”

“I wanted to apologize for Tuesday,” he says quickly as if the words need to be said before he loses his nerve. “I shouldn’t have kissed you like that after the scene. I took advantage.”

“It’s ok,” I hear myself saying. Mostly because I’m not sure how else to respond. I’m not mad about it, not remotely. That’s Natalie’s department.

“It wasn’t professional,” he continues. “I’d love to work with you again, but only if you’re comfortable with it.”

“Lance, it’s ok. We’re good. I appreciate you apologizing.” I lick my lips, knowing Natalie is listening to every word. “I’ve got some free time Sunday, if that works for you.”

“Sunday afternoon ok?” He’s perked up.

“Yeah, that’ll work. Your place or mine?”

“I’m happy to come over again if it makes you more comfortable.”

I bite my lip. Yes, of course I’m more comfortable in my own space.

“Let’s do mine then. Let me know if you have any thoughts on a scene. I’ll try to come up with something.”

“You got it. See you Sunday. Thanks for giving me another chance.”

After hanging up, I look over at my roommate. She’s not meeting my gaze, but that’s probably good since she’s driving.

“So judgey today.” A faint smile plays on my lips.

“I love you,” she sighs. “But you don’t have the best track record.”

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