Deep breath, move forward, boy.
I enter the vestibule, a blinding bulb burns 24/7. The next door is the back of the auditorium.
It is almost completely black, swallowing your senses. One of the two-story drapes is slightly open, shooting a slice of sun to the front. On the right stands Alison, leaning against the stage; a cat out of the bag. I briefly entertain a picture of a cat’s tail flitting in the air, twisting and writhing seductively.
A spot of light dances across a wall; one of her patent shoes catches the sun as she nervously taps. “C’mon, I don’t bite.”
I smile involuntarily. “You know how to make an entrance.”
“If I wanted drama, I’d stand in the sun.” She smiles with teeth.
I move beside her, leaning on the stage. Silence, broken by her feet tapping. I can’t stand it. “So, I’m here.”
She searches for words. “You Know……in Mr. Harris’ class…you’re not very subtle.”
“What?”
“You move your desk back to look at my legs.”
Well, that’s one hit to the body. I guess I was pretty obvious, and oblivious. A nervous laugh. “That’s because you have great legs.” Ooops, that was really stupid. Asshole!
She smiles, clears hair from her face. “Thank you.” A pause. “You don’t like Lynn, do you?”
Oh SHIT. How long will that trail along behind me? Will my tombstone read “he liked Lynn’s legs”? I soft-pedal my frustration……..”Not even close to my type.”
Silences descends. She’s looking at her feet; I gaze wantonly at her legs. Damn, I need a cold shower.
“I’m waiting for you to make your move,” she whispers.
I’m hopelessly bollixed; out it comes, uncensored. “Me??? You’re one of the best girls in the school! I’m not on your level!”
She grins, almost aglow. Smooths her skirt. “You’re very cute. Thank you.”
I sense her moving nervously. And then, without warning……she kissed me.