Page 33 of Penalty Shot

Elise:You were great! Congrats on the win!

April 22

[picture of the stage with partial set]

Elise:Asked the lighting designer for more dramatic effects and now the stage looks like a vampire movie set. There are no vampires inBloodWill Have Blood, although the title does suggest it…Shit, should I have vampires?

April 24

Elise:Today was the best rehearsal we’ve had so far. Just wanted to say that out loud.

Elise:Text it out loud. Sorry—I’m giddy AF.

April 27

Randall:I’m giddy along with you. Congrats on the rehearsals being awesome! Had no doubt you would get them there.

Randall:So, we won the first series. The phone hiatus sucks but now that we won I’ll have to stick with it.

Randall:Athletes are so fucking superstitious.

Randall:There will be no vampires unless that’s what you want.

Randall:Hey I’m reachable till Monday while we wait for one of the Florida teams to win.

Randall:I know texting is kind of our thing but it’s been a while. Can I call you?

Three hours later…

Elise:Hey! I was on the road when you texted. We’re just over a month from opening so I’m squeezing in a visit to my mom while I can.

Randall:Thank fuck. I thought you were mad at me.

Elise:Why would I be mad at you?

Randall:Nevermind. The real question is, ARE YOU IN COLUMBUS RIGHT NOW?

Elise:You’re breaking my text eardrums here. Yeah, for two nights.

Randall:Can I see you while you’re in town? Or is this solely a family visit.

Elise:Let me get back to you on that. I’ll call tonight.

Randall:Hey, I know you’ve got a ton of friends in Columbus but if you’re ever short on someone to check up on your mom, you can always reach me through my agent. I’ll put you on a text thread with her so you have each other’s number.

Elise:This visit isn’t an emergency or anything. I just miss her. Also, reach me through my agent is a major flex.

Elise:Thank you for offering to check on her.

Elise:Wait, did you offer because you heard she cooks for everyone who walks through the door?

Randall:She does?

Elise:All my friends put up with me so they can get on her good side.

Randall:You’re easy to put up with.

If you told me weeks ago that I’d be waiting around for a girl to fit me into her plans, I’d say you were a delusional idiot.