With blinders on, I say, “You’re right. You’re the best!”
“I know I am! Keep me posted.”
With that squared away, I don’t second-guess myself. I’m not letting another chance slip through my fingers. Immediately, I redial Clive’s number and tell him I changed my mind.
On the way out, I open my text thread with Drew to see a message waiting.
Drew:I told your great-aunt Judy it was me who almost showered her in martini. We had a good laugh.
Drew:She asked if you were still doing “that comedy thing.” I didn’t know what to say…
What I want to type back is: “Yes, Great-Aunt Judy, I am!” But instead, I say:Big news! Had to step out. Be back soon.
In an instant, I’m out the door.
Chapter Ten
“What’s with the getup?” Clive asks.
It’s absurd that I made it onto two trains, through six stops, down busy sidewalks, and not once did I consider that I was still wearing my wedding suit. I must look like a straight-up clown to Clive. Hair a mess, tie loose, nose still stinted. I shrug like this is my everyday wear. “What can I say? I like to make an entrance.”
Clive nods in appreciation and extends a hand decked out with multiple rings; a stringy bracelet hangs from his wrist. “Nice to see you, Nolan. Thanks for coming down. What made you change your mind?”
We start walking back toward the green room. He skips any formal tour or introductions with any of the staff. I’m his special guest, and it’s clear from everyone we pass that Clive is held in high esteem here; thus, by extension, so am I. It’s a welcome change over the blatant disregard I get from most at the Hardy-Har Hideaway. “Let’s just say the circumstance changed suddenly.”
Speaking of circumstance, I pull out my phone. I’ve got three missed calls from Drew, and a few texts as well. “Hey, it’s none of my business, man. I get it. Save the real shit for the stage.”
Clive leads me into a communal room. A few vanity mirrors with burnt-out bulbs, crimson walls, and paper clippings framed andhung with no regard for organization. A white guy in a backward hat rolls a joint on a nearby table, while two women sit on a faded leather couch in the corner, scrolling their phones and sighing.
“Crew, this is Nolan. Nolan, this is the crew.” Nobody looks up from what they’re doing. Weed Bro gives a little grunt. “Make yourself at home. We’ll get you out there soon. The house is about to open.”
I thank him before he disappears. Uncertain where to sit given the vibe of the room, I find a corner and lean up against the least cluttered wall. I pull out my phone to sort through my notifications.
Where are you going?
What happened with that phone call?
A bit later:Can you please text me back? I’m getting worried.
It’s all too much to type, so I slink further into the corner and call Drew instead. He picks up right away. “Nolan, thank God. Where are you? I went up to our room to look for you. They did the entrance dance without you.”
“I know. Look, don’t freak out,” I preamble.
“Is this about the kiss?” Drew asks, voice soupy and concerned.
“What? Oh my God, no. This has nothing to do with that,” I reassure him.
“Are you sure? Because if I scared you off, I can leave. I don’t want to—”
“Drew,” I cut in lovingly. “The kiss wasamazing. And do you know what else is amazing? The Broadway Laugh Box finally called. That was Clive Bergman on the phone. I’m here. I’m going on as his opener.”
I expect excitement, but instead I get exasperation. “What?” he asks. “You’re in Manhattan? You know they’re about to serve dinner, right?”
“Yes,” I say quickly. “I’ll do my thing onstage, finish up here,and slip back into the party right on cue for my mister of honor speech. CeeCee will be wowed by my heartfelt yet hilarious words. Everything will be perfect.” I keep my voice as light as possible to remain convincing.
“What am I supposed to say when someone asks where you are?”
“Tell them my stomach was bothering me. One of the hors d’oeuvres. I stepped out to run to the pharmacy,” I say right as a stage manager enters the room with some important information. “Drew, I have to go. It’s almost showtime. I’ll be back before you know it.”
