Page 26 of Penalty Shot
Tonight was fun. There’s no point acting like strangers if we bump into each other again. But I have to be clear about the parameters of this arrangement.
“Friends without benefits?” I ask.
He rolls his eyes as if I said the most obvious thing in the world. Nonetheless, he confirms it by repeating, “Friends without benefits.”
March 15
Randall:How was the drive to Cleveland? Is the place you’re renting OK?
Elise:Drive was great. The apartment I’m renting is walking distance to the theater. The only downside is the owner used to run a clown camp. Being here triggers my IT nightmares.
Randall:Is clown camp what it sounds like?
Elise:What does it sound like?
Randall:A place where you wear red noses and learn how to turn balloons into animals.
Elise:Don’t forget the large shoes and juggling balls. Yes, it is what it sounds like. The owner uses the living room to store props and costumes.
Randall:Is he there while you’re renting?
Elise:Nope. He’s a physical comedy choreographer in contract at LA for the next few months.
Randall:That’s not so bad. At least there aren’t actual clowns.
Elise: [sends a picture of a model prop in complete clown costume, a massive wig, and no face]
Randall:WTF! That’s worse than the IT clown.
Elise:I lock the bedroom door at night. Tell me I’m being paranoid.
Randall:You’re being paranoid.
Randall:Actually, TBH, I’d lock my door too.
March 23
Randall:For some reason this reminded me of you.
[picture of rubber chickens]
Elise:What a coincidence. I needed that to complete my outfit.[selfie with a rainbow wig and red nose]
Randall: [laugh emoji]How’s the play going?
Elise:We have callbacks this week and the final casting choices are posted soon after.
Randall:They’ll be lucky to work with you.
Elise:Thanks Randall.
March 26
Elise:What do you know about dating apps?
Randall: [Bubble dots come and go for a few minutes]Why?
Elise:I started my mother’s profile on OkCupid and eHarmony and the choices are brutal.
