Melody
You have coaches for that.
K-Brad
They’re ass-kissers. I want the truth.
Melody
I didn’t call them that. You did.
K-Brad
Hold up, let me check. Instant replay, I believe you said, “You’re surrounded by a bunch of ass-kissers. That explains a lot.”
Melody
Only after you said no one talked to you the way I do. I find that hard to believe. Your coach tells you what you need to hear.
K-Brad
Maybe I hear it better coming from you.
My chest tightens, and I will myself to be strong. He’s trying to hijack my show the way he hijacked my night all those months ago.
I won’t let him.
Melody
You’ll see my comments along with everyone else. When I make them.
My phone goes still. I don’t see the gray dots bouncing, telling me he’s already composing his comeback. I don’t see any signs of him being there at all.
I refuse to give in to the sinking feeling in my chest. I have standards and ethics. I always have. Letting him know what I have planned for the show is violating that code. If that means he’s done talking with me, so be it.
I am not unhappy or even sad about it.
K-Brad
What did you want to be when you grew up?
My heart did not jump out of my chest at this new, unexpected turn.
Melody
What age are we talking? I wanted to be a lot of things.
K-Brad
Of course you did, you delight. Let’s say preschool, before the other kids told you what you couldn’t do.
My lips pull into a reluctant smile, and I’ve got to hand it to him.
Melody
First I wanted to be a princess. Then my best friend’s dad showed us that old movie The Quarterback Princess, and it changed my life.
K-Brad
