In Another Lifetime By Yosh Episode 16A Chapter by Yosh Is the person on the other line Marvin's friend Russell or not? What do they plan on doing if it is him? Will it work out? TW: This story will address sensitive subjects, including homophobia, abandonment, death, mental health struggles, the implications of suicide, etc. Please be mindful of these topics before you continue reading. In Another Lifetime by Yosh ____________________________________________________________ Reading key: Anything to the side in bold is narration. Anything to the side with a "character's name:" are inner thoughts. Anything in bold italics and regular italics are stage directions. Lines are numbered for the reader to keep track. Anything () is extra information. ____________________________________________________________ Episode 16: The day is April 17th, 2023. It's a Monday afternoon. As Calista and Marvin call their last number (Marvin's friend Russell), the person who picks up the call calls for their grandfather, which signifies relief for Marvin as he assumes the grandfather could be his friend Russell. The soft-spoken person on the line passes the phone over to their grandfather. Their grandfather puts the phone to his ear, speaking in a deep and husky voice. Grandfather Line 1) Hello? Who is this? Marvin's eyes widen speechlessly, deeply believing that the person speaking is Russell. Calista speaks in a clarifying manner, her tone polite. Calista Line 2) Hello, sir. My name is Calista Thakur, and I'm a social worker. Are you Mr. Russell, by any chance? The grandfather on the line speaks confirmingly, with his voice disconcerted at the unexpected mention of his name. Russell Line 3) Yes, this is Russell. I'm confused. Why is a social worker calling me? Marvin releases a sigh of relief, his eyebrows slanting happily as they confirm Russell is indeed speaking to Calista. Marvin whispers into Calista's ear, speaking instructively. Marvin Line 4) As we've planned, say Teresa hired you to deal with her familial issues.* *Refer back to episode 14, lines 102, 109, 110. Calista nods her head determinedly, obliging to Marvin's orders agreeably. Calista Line 5) I was hired by Teresa Dicon. I'm sure you know who she is, as you were friends with her grandfather, Marvin Dicon. She's dealing with familial issues and wants to get in touch with anyone who knew her grandfather to get to the bottom of things. It'd be great if you were to inform us of the things that happened in his life, as she is not aware of them. Russell speaks in a shocked manner, deeply taken aback at the sudden request out of the blue. Russell Line 6) Wow. I feel like I'm in trouble. Doesn't it seem excessive to involve a social worker, though? Are things really that bad? Calista speaks informatively, her voice sincere. Calista Line 7) There's no need to feel alarmed, sir. You are not in any sort of trouble. You were the only number that confirmed we were calling the right person. It's not my call to have a say on how bad matters are. That's up to Teresa. I'm just trying to help my client to the best of my abilities. Russell speaks in a tone of confusion, seeking immense context. Russell Line 8) What do I have to do with her family? Yes, I knew her grandfather, but he wasn't involved in her life. How could knowledge about his life help her get to the bottom of her "familial issues"? Calista speaks convincingly, her voice radiating seriousness. Calista Line 9) As a social worker, it is my duty to assess my client's issues and connect them with the proper resources they need to alleviate their problem. Teresa is currently having a huge disagreement with her grandmother, Elouise, and it is affecting other aspects of her life that her grandfather is caught in the middle of. Calista speaks in a detail-oriented manner, making sure to paint a full picture for Russell to visualize further. Calista Line 10) Teresa simply wants to know what happened to her grandfather, but her grandmother won't give her the full story, and her secrecy is causing their issues to continue, involving her father in the matter as well. Teresa wishes to pinpoint what exactly went wrong in their marriage because she thinks it is the root of their disagreement. Calista speaks politely, hoping more context will put Russell's confusion at ease. Calista Line 11) It would be great if you could fill in our gaps. Would you be okay with supplying me with that information, sir? I know it may seem uncomfortable to talk about, especially since Teresa has reached out before but didn't get the help she sought, and now the situation has gotten to the point where a social worker is involved... Calista Line 12) She would greatly benefit from your insight about her grandfather's life should you choose to help. Would you like some more time to think things through? Calista's statements further confuse Russell, leading him to question the order of events. Russell Line 13) Um. She never reached out about her grandfather. Not only would I have known about that, but I definitely would've remembered, too... Calista's eyes bulge in shock. She stays silent on the line, processing the unexpected remark. Marvin bites the tip of his thumb, thinking through what Russell said in a similar thought process, feeling anxious. Line 14) Calista's inner thoughts: But... that doesn't make any sense. Teresa said she had no luck getting in touch with Marvin's friends to figure out what happened to him herself.* Why is Russell saying she never reached out? *Refer back to episode 9, line 97. Calista gets hit with a deep realization, rubbing her head in distress. Line 15) Calista's inner thoughts: D****t! We've misunderstood. No luck getting in touch with them does not mean she did, but they rejected her. Why have we led with that assumption all along?* We must've gotten too distracted with other things. *Refer back to episode 14, line 101. Marvin whispers into Calista's ear, understanding their mistake after processing it. Marvin Line 16) I don't know why I came to the conclusion that Teresa contacted my friends, but they were reluctant to talk about me because of Elouise's impact on my life. I'm really sorry for the mix-up. Just explain you made a mistake, and hopefully, he won't think much of it. Russell questions Calista disconcertedly, wondering why she's gone silent. Russell Line 17) Hello? Are you still there, ma'am? Calista chimes in frantically, her voice noticeably anxious. Calista Line 18) Y-yeah. It appears I've made a mistake, sir. I apologize... You are correct. She has not contacted you. A moment of silence passes between the two of them. Calista Line 19) Um. So. Is it all right for you to talk about Teresa's Russell speaks skeptically. Russell Line 20) Sure... I don't mind... Calista speaks in a manner of relief, diverting her attention to what she should ask Russell. Calista Line 21) Great. Your compliance is heavily appreciated. So, could you start with�" Russell cuts Calista off, speaking suggetingly, his tone cautious. Russell Line 22) Sorry to interrupt, but would it be okay if we met in person to talk about this? It's not fitting to speak over the phone. Russell Line 23) I'd like to see you in person to verify your identity and see your social work qualifications if you don't mind. Calista thinks nervously. Line 24) Calista's inner thoughts: Of course. Who'd willingly reveal that kind of stuff just because a "social worker" is calling them? One could easily fake that, and I'm living proof. Calista speaks comprehendingly, her delivery friendly and understanding. Calista Line 25) That is no problem, sir. I apologize for seeming rash. I thoroughly understand your request. When and where would you like to meet? Don't feel the need to squeeze me in if you're busy. I'd like for you to be as comfortable as possible. I'm okay with any timing of your preference. Russell speaks informatively. Russell Line 26) I'm a bit busy at the moment, so would later today work out for you? Let's say, around 3:00 PM. Calista speaks reassuringly, with Marvin nodding his head confirmingly. Calista Line 27) That works just fine, sir. Russell speaks suggestingly. Russell Line 28) Let's meet at Magnolia Tree Park. Do you know where that is? Calista speaks respectfully, feeling productive about her and Marvin's next steps. Calista Line 29) Yes. I'll see you then. Thank you so much for your help. I thoroughly appreciate your understanding and patience. Russell replies in an uncertain voice, his tone inquisitive. Russell Line 30) Sure... I'll see you then too, Ms... What did you say your name was again? I'm sorry. Oh. I almost forgot. What do you look like so that I can spot you at the park? Calista speaks informatively, her voice patient. Calista Line 31) It's Calista Thakur. I have blue hair, so I'd be hard to miss. Russell speaks dubiously, apprehensive about his planned interaction with Calista. Russell Line 32) Alright, Ms. Thakur. Until then. Just be on the lookout for an old man sitting on a bench. That'll be me. Bye. Russell ends the call, and Calista releases a sigh of relief. Marvin and Calista gaze into each other's eyes in a hopeful manner. Marvin speaks apologetically, feeling guilty. Marvin Line 33) I'm so sorry about the mistake. My confusion is not an excuse. I'll promise to do better. Calista puts her hand on Marvin's shoulder reassuringly, not wanting him to be so hard on himself. She speaks in a calm tone. Calista Line 34) Don't worry. I got confused, too. It's an honest mistake. Hopefully, your friend won't be too skeptical of it. Marvin leans his head back on Calista's couch, releasing a sentimental sigh. Marvin Line 35) I'm so relieved he's alive. I don't know what I would've done if he wasn't here. I really thought it was over for us. Calista smiles at Marvin happily, feeling helpful. Marvin and Calista plan what they want to say to Russell when Calista meets up with him. Marvin writes out what Calista should say on the notepad he's been using. Marvin's notes: 1. How did Elouise and Marvin get married? 2. What happened to Marvin after he divorced Elouise? 3. Where did Marvin live? 4. Did Marvin remarry? 5. Did Marvin try to keep in touch with his family even though they cut him off? 6. How did Marvin die? Calista skims through Marvin's notes to confirm them. Marvin speaks curiously, seeking Calista's reassurance. Marvin Line 36) What do you think? Is anything missing? Calista speaks in a validative manner. Calista Line 37) No. This should cover everything we need to know. I'm sure your friend will be able to tell us all about you. Calista looks at the time from afar, gazing at her kitchen and microwave, noticing that it's 1:00 PM. Calista speaks suggestingly, her voice alluring. Calista Line 38) We have two hours to kill until we're set to meet up with him. In the meantime, I was thinking I could show you how to use technology.* Would you like that? *Refer back to episode 14, lines 92 and 93. Marvin speaks enthusiastically, feeling excited about the suggestion. Marvin Line 39) Of course, I would! That would be great, Calista! Teach me your ways, please! Around an hour and a half go by, and Calista has shown Marvin how to use her phone, then moves on to show him how to use her laptop. As they near the end of her lecture, Calista finalizes with some extra notes, sitting beside Marvin on the couch as he holds her laptop in his lap, navigating his way through things. His eyes sparkle in interest, feeling deeply fascinated. Calista speaks informatively, trying her best to speak engagingly. Calista Line 40) After searching for something, you can even clean your browsing data so that the computer has a clear history. Marvin speaks in a manner of confusion, his eyebrows furrowing puzzlingly. Marvin Line 41) Why would anyone want to do that? Isn't it better to keep your history so that you can access it again if you need it again? That would be like tearing research documents apart. I don't get it. Calista releases a gentle chuckle from Marvin's silly analogy. She elaborates charismatically. Calista Line 42) Sure, you could keep your history to access it when needed, but this feature comes in handy when one uses sensitive information, such as passwords, so that whoever else uses your device won't be exposed to that data. It also frees up browsing storage, thus helping your device work faster. As Calista speaks visually, she wishes to further ingrain the knowledge in Marvin's mind for him to fully understand. Calista Line 43) For example, I don't have a printer, so when I need to print things but am not at work, luckily my apartment complex's leasing office has a printer and even some computers. So, what I do is log on to a computer and print whatever I need to print, but then, after I'm done printing, log out of my account and clear my browsing data so that no one can have access to any information I needed to put in to use the computer. Calista speaks fearfully. Calista Line 44) It's very easy to get hacked nowadays, so it's important to be secure by taking such precautions. Better safe than sorry, right? Does that make sense? Marvin speaks confirmingly, smiling at Calista appreciatively from her simplistic explanations. Marvin Line 45) Yes. That makes complete sense. Thank you for explaining. Everything is just so advanced! It's so cool! People are really thinking ahead! I like it! Calista speaks happily, finding Marvin's interest endearing. Calista Line 46) Yeah, I like it, too. I think you're getting the hang of it. You're a quick learner. Marvin smiles at Calista in a grateful manner, speaking in a deeply thankful tone. Marvin Line 47) That's only because you're being so thorough. Thank you for being patient with me. Calista smiles at Marvin touchingly, feeling proud of her usefulness. A thought comes to her mind. Calista Line 48) Speaking of printing things, I should print out a fake license of some sort to show your friend since he mentioned he wants proof of my qualifications.* So before we head to the park, let's get that out of the way, okay? *Refer back to line 23 of this episode. Marvin replies apprehensively. Marvin Line 49) Of course. That's smart. But do you know how to make a fake license? That sounds complex and illegal, to say the least... Calista speaks in a reasonable manner, justifying her actions. Calista Line 50) Well, it's without a doubt illegal, but I gotta do what I gotta do. It's not like I'm harming anyone. I'm sure I'll get away with it. Should be easy enough. Calista speaks suggestingly. Calista Line 51) I'd just have to find a real license and put my information over it. Let's put your newly learned tech skills to work. Find me a social work license. Marvin searches for a social work license, pulling up an image of one. Calista analyzes it, nodding her head confirmingly. Calista Line 52) This should work. Download it for me so that I can edit it. Marvin does just that with an unexpected pop-up ad appearing as he right-clicks to download the license. He freezes, not knowing what to do to get rid of it. He speaks in a panic as he reads what the pop-up ad says, his facial expression grim. Marvin Line 53) Oh my gosh... I'm so sorry, Calista. Your laptop has gotten a virus. All I did was right-click. How could this happen?! Calista speaks reassuringly, patting Marvin on the shoulder to put him at ease. Calista Line 54) Relax, Marvin. My laptop hasn't gotten a virus. This pop-up ad is a scam. It seems my ad-blocker isn't working. Don't fall for these or click on them because they're traps. Just exit out by looking for your closest "X" button. Marvin struggles to find the "X" button on the webpage, his movements tense as he uses Calista's laptop's touchpad, afraid he'll make the wrong click. Calista intervenes, placing her hand on her laptop's touchpad and gently bumping into Marvin's. Marvin intently watches Calista as she finds the very tiny "X" button on the top right corner of the pop-up ad, clicking on it to close the ad once and for all. Calista looks at Marvin happily, speaking supportively. Calista Line 55) In your defense, it was a very small "X". I'm sure you'll be able to spot it on your own next time. Marvin gazes into Calista's eyes appreciatively, blushing at her gesture. Line 56) Marvin's inner thoughts: She's so cool! Calista's eyes look down at the time on the bottom right-hand corner of her laptop's screen, reading it. She speaks conclusively, wanting to wrap things up. Calista Line 57) It's time we get going. Magnolia Tree Park is around ten minutes away from here by bus. Let me quickly edit this license, then let's make a stop by the leasing office for me to print it, and we'll be on our way. Marvin passes Calista's laptop over for her to edit the license. He speaks supportively, his gratitude for Calista's efforts genuine. Marvin Line 58) Well, I wish you the best of luck. I'm sure you'll be able to convince him. Thank you so much for doing this for me! Calista looks at Marvin in confusion, speaking puzzlingly. Calista Line 59) What? I thought we were going together. Marvin tilts his head to the side in confusion, speaking in an obvious manner. Marvin Line 60) You know I can't go with you. Russell will recognize me in a heartbeat. Calista speaks suggestingly, her tone encouraging. Calista Line 61) We can use the same shades and beanie from last time that we used with Teresa.* I'll say you're my assistant of some kind. You could be like my notetaker. *Refer back to episode 7, lines 16�"20, more details in between lines 20�"21, etc. Marvin speaks reasonably. Marvin Line 62) I'll have to speak one way or another. It'd be awkward if I were silent the entire time. He'd recognize my voice immediately. An idea comes across Calista's mind, prompting her to share it considerably. Calista Line 63) Maybe fake an accent? That sounds fun! Marvin explains in embarrassment. Marvin Line 64) I would fake various kinds of accents with Russell and my entire friend group. I'm sure he'd be able to recognize that as well. I only mentioned faking an accent earlier just because we'd be speaking over the phone, but meeting in person is way more different.* *Refer back to episode 14, line 96. Calista thoroughly thinks through Marvin's points. A couple of seconds go by, and she comes up with an idea, speaking informatively, her tone charismatic. Calista Line 65) I've got it! You can monitor our conversation by listening to it through my laptop. Remember how I showed you that my laptop can take calls?* You'd just need to call my number, and I'll pick up through my phone. Calista Line 66) I'll just put my phone in my back pocket with my speaker facing up so you can listen to our conversation without the audio being muffled while staying muted on the other line. Remember how to mute a call? Marvin speaks confirmingly, his voice precautious. Marvin Line 67) Yes, I remember everything. But in that case, couldn't I just stay here? I'm just afraid he'll still somehow notice me. Calista speaks suggestingly, thinking through various important points. Calista Line 68) You can hide behind a tree. I'd feel more secure if you were to come with me, but you don't have to if you really don't want to. You really could just stay home and monitor things from here. Calista Line 69) But if things were to go wrong, I wouldn't know what to do, so having you by my side would be better because we could come up with something on the spot, like we did yesterday when meeting Teresa. Marvin thinks through Calista's request, agreeing with her remarks. Marvin Line 70) Okay. I'll come. You're right. If things go wrong, we'll need to work together as a team. I can't think of a backup plan at the moment, but maybe I'll be able to later. Calista fetches Marvin his shades and beanie from last time. Marvin puts his disguise on, ready to leave. Calista prepares a tote bag of belongings, putting her laptop and headphones in for Marvin to monitor her conversation with Russell. The two of them leave the apartment, with Calista stopping by the leasing office to print the social work license. Marvin patiently waits for her to be finished, to which she walks out of the office shortly, putting the license in her tote bag. The two of them make their way over to a bus station to get to the park. Calista and Marvin board the bus after Calista pays the bus driver. The two of them are left to hold onto the poles of the bus instead of sitting because of how packed it is, Calista speaks in a precautious manner. Calista Line 71) We should get ourselves hooked up before we arrive. Calista opens her bag, and pulls out her laptop, turning it on, while also, plugging her headphones in for Marvin. She calls her phone, with it ringing in her pocket. With her hands busy, she requests Marvin to help her. Calista Line 72) I forgot to take my phone out to accept the call. Could you please hold my laptop for a quick sec? Marvin nods his head obligingly, with Calista passing her laptop over to him, getting her phone out of her pocket to accept the call. As she does this, the bus comes to an abrupt stop, pushing Calista onto Marvin's chest and pushing his back against the wall. Marvin's reflexes prompt him to hold Calista's laptop above her head as she gets pushed into him. After the sudden stop, the bus driver continues driving. Calista pulls back from Marvin, speaking timidly and apologetically. Calista Line 73) I'm so sorry. Is your back okay? That was a rough one. Marvin speaks reassuringly, his tone flustered. Marvin Line 74) Y-yeah. It's completely fine. Are you okay? The two of them blush at each other from the unexpected occurrence. Calista responds awkwardly. Calista Line 75) I'm all good. Thank you... Calista diverts her focus onto their task, speaking informatively. Calista Line 76) Anyway, I accepted the call on my phone and have you all situated on my laptop, audio muted, and all on your end. When we arrive at the park, just find a spot to hide in that's somewhat close to me and your friend, and listen to our conversation through the headphones. Marvin nods his head confirmingly. They finally arrive at their destination, with Marvin and Calista getting off the bus. As they walk closer to the park, Calista gets a text from Russell. She speaks informatively to Marvin, her tone slightly tense as things start to get real. Calista Line 77) He said he's here. Do you spot him anywhere? He mentioned being on a bench.* *Refer back to line 32 of this episode. Marvin looks around the park, intently seeking his friend. His eyebrows furrow in distress. Line 78) Marvin's inner thoughts: This will be tricky. Can I recognize the older version of Russell? I wasn't able to recognize Elouise.* *Refer back to episode 6, line 101. Marvin spots all kinds of benches with unfamiliar people sitting in them. After a couple of minutes go by, Marvin spots an old man sitting on a bench on his own, but his face turned the other way, Marvin's eyes glisten in hope, bracing himself for the reveal once the man turns his face toward him. Line 79) Marvin's inner thoughts: Is that him? He needs to turn his head for me to confirm. The old man turns his head toward Marvin's direction. Marvin's eyes widen in shock and relief, and he analyzes the old man, confirming it is indeed his friend Russell. He lets out a bittersweet chuckle. Line 80) Marvin's inner thoughts: This is a sight I never thought I'd see so soon. How surreal. How old you have gotten, my dear friend... Marvin speaks in a melancholic manner. Marvin Line 81) I found him. Marvin points at the old man from afar for Calista to pinpoint. She nods her head confirmingly, getting ready to make her approach. Calista Line 82) Gotcha. Well, find somewhere close by to hide and listen to our call. I'll go chat with him. Marvin speaks appreciatively toward Calista. Marvin Line 83) Good luck. I know you can do this. Calista smiles at Marvin determinedly, ready to take on their challenge. Calista quickly texts Talulla their entire situation so that she knows why she and Marvin are out of the apartment, not knowing how long the encounter will take. After that, she slides her phone into her pocket, making sure the speaker is up so that Marvin is able to hear through Calista's laptop. Calista takes in a deep breath before she walks over to Russell. When she reaches him, she smiles, speaking in a welcoming manner. Calista Line 84) Excuse me, sir. You're Mr. Russell, correct? Russell analyzes Calista, confirming her appearance. Russell Line 85) Yes. You really do have blue hair, Ms. Thakur. Calista releases a friendly chuckle, extending her hand out for a handshake. Russell accepts Calista's hand, shaking it firmly in return. Calista speaks calmly. Calista Line 86) Yes, sir. Is it okay for me to take a seat next to you? Russell nods his head assuringly. Calista speaks appreciatively. Calista Line 87) Thank you so much for taking time out of your day to speak with me. Russell gives a default response, not actually meaning what he says. Russell Line 88) Of course. I'm just glad that I can be helpful. He speaks inquisitively, ready to press Calista with all kinds of questions. Russell Line 89) Say, how did you get my number? Calista's eyes widen in shock, not expecting such a question from Russell. She freaks out on the inside, feeling unprepared. Line 90) Calista's inner thoughts: D****t! How did this potential question slip my mind? What do I say? *Shot cuts to Marvin hiding behind a tree, wired into the call. His eyes widen in panic, feeling nervous. Calista swiftly comes up with something to say, speaking rigidly, with Marvin anxiously listening. Calista Line 91) T-teresa was able to locate an old phone book from her Uncle Todd, to which she shared various numbers. I called a bunch today, but you were the only one who answered, saying I didn't have the wrong number. Marvin releases a sigh of relief from Calista's save, smiling at ease. Line 92) Marvin's inner thoughts: She thinks on her feet quickly. Thank goodness I have her by my side. There's no way Russell's suspicious after Calista mentioned Todd. That solidifies she's the real deal. *Shot cuts back to Russell and Calista, continuing their conversation. Russell speaks comprehendingly, his voice skeptical of Calista's tense body language and voice. Russell Line 93) Oh, I see. That would explain why my friend Cady didn't pick up because she changed her number recently. Russell speaks in an instructive manner, his delivery slightly passive-aggressive. Russell Line 94) Have you brought any kind of license with you today? Could I please take a look to verify your social work credentials? Calista nods her head and pulls out the fabricated license from her tote bag, handing it over to Russell. Russell examines the license skeptically. Line 95) Russell's inner thoughts: Shouldn't a license be prepared in a more professional manner? The wording is a bit blurry as if someone printed it out. Line 96) Russell's inner thoughts: Printing a license out doesn't necessarily mean it's fake, but based on that one slip-up she made earlier on the phone, it's certainly not making her look legit. Calista takes out Marvin's notepad from her tote bag and flips to the questions they prepared earlier, getting ready to ask them. She speaks awkwardly, not knowing how to make herself look innocent. Calista Line 97) Alrighty. I have some questions I'd like to ask you. Is it okay for us to start? Russell speaks in a firm manner, gazing into Calista's eyes coldly. Russell Line 98) Before we do that, may I ask specifically what Teresa and her grandmother are going through that requires knowing about their grandfather? Calista explains vaguely, clearing her throat before she speaks. Calista Line 99) You're going to have to forgive my weak specificity since I am not sure if Teresa is okay with me disclosing such detailed information, but as I mentioned over the phone, she and her grandmother have gotten into a disagreement, and it is affecting her life.* *Refer back to lines 5, 9, 10, etc, of this episode. Calista speaks informatively. Calista Line 100) Teresa assumes that their disagreement stems from her grandmother's relationship with her grandfather, but since her grandmother cut ties with him after their divorce, she doesn't know much about them. She didn't even know she had a grandfather until he passed away.* *Refer back to episode 8, line 68, etc. Calista speaks in a manner that looks out for Teresa. Calista Line 101) Not only would it be great for her to know about her grandfather simply because she rightfully deserves to, but it'd help her trace out her next steps when it comes to resolving the disagreement with her grandmother. Russell speaks in a tone of confusion, his eyebrows furrowing disconcertedly. Russell Line 102) What I can't understand is why she felt the need to hire a social worker if it's simply for that reason alone. Russell Line 103) If she had her uncle Todd's phonebook all this time, why couldn't she just give me a call on her own to know about this? I would've explained everything to her at ease. Calista stays silent, not knowing how to respond, though she finds Russell's inquisitions valid. Russell speaks curiously. Russell Line 104) Do you have Teresa's number? Can you call her? Why wasn't she able to meet up with you today? Calista comes up with an excuse, speaking convincingly. Calista Line 105) She's really busy today, running the café and whatnot. That's why I'm here in her stead. Russell speaks in a manner of concern. Russell Line 106) Perhaps we should reschedule our meeting so that all of us can be present. I also think I should get more context regarding the entirety of what Teresa's dealing with. Calista's eyes widen in panic. Line 107) Calista's inner thoughts: How would I explain all of this to Teresa? She'd be confused as to why I faked being a social worker for something that isn't my business to bud into. I can't get her involved. She speaks encouragingly, her tone uncertain. Calista Line 108) I get where you're coming from, sir. But while I'm already here, why don't we continue and meet up with Teresa when she's free another time? Russell gazes into Calista's eyes skeptically, wondering where she's going with the conversation. Russell Line 109) I suppose... Could you at least call her? I know she's busy, but a brief call to verify she constructed all of this would do. Calista's face engulfs a grim expression. Line 110) Calista's inner thoughts: I can't do that either. Teresa would be so confused. My cover will be blown. Calista speaks nervously. Calista Line 111) Um. She really is busy, though. I'm sorry. I think it's best we don't bother her. Russell speaks in a manner of confusion. Russell Line 112) Well, then, we should reschedule. I don't understand why she made you the one to call and meet me first when she could have easily done that all by herself. I know running a café keeps one busy, but a quick phone call to verify all of this wouldn't hurt. Russell speaks skeptically. Russell Line 113) You understand what I'm hinting at, right, Ms. Thakur? What especially doesn't sit right with me is how you mistakenly mentioned Teresa reached out to me first, when that's not true at all.* You sounded really confident, too. There's no way that statement was a slip of the tongue. *Refer back to lines 11 and 13 of this episode. Calista's eyes bulge in shock, providing anxious reassurance. Calista Line 114) Th-that was just an honest mistake, sir. Russell speaks in a doubtful voice. Russell Line 115) I'm sorry, but I don't believe you, Ms. Thakur. Russell speaks leniently, wondering what Calista could possibly say to excuse her efforts. Russell Line 116) Can you explain yourself to me? Calista gulps hard, unable to come up with anything. *Shot cuts to Marvin panicking as he listens to their call. Line 117) Marvin's inner thoughts: He's got us cornered! What do we do? Marvin listens to Calista's defense, analyzing whether it's strong enough or not. Calista Line 118) I'm sorry you don't believe me, sir. But I really am a social worker that Teresa hired... Marvin shakes his head no disapprovingly. Line 119) Marvin's inner thoughts: He sees through her lies. Continuing to reinforce them will only lead to more loose ends for him to pick on... I'm left with no other choice. Marvin ends the call on Calista's laptop, turning it off, closing it, and wrapping her headphones up. He stands up from the tree he hid behind, approaching Russell and Calista on the bench they're sitting on. He takes a deep breath, feeling nervous. From afar, he notices Calista continuing to explain herself, with Russell looking at her skeptically. Marvin reaches the two of them, removing his beanie. Calista speaks in a manner of surprise, blurting out a random excuse in a panic. Calista Line 120) U-um. Sorry. My assistant, Jimmy, must've gotten an update on something. What is it? Russell looks at Marvin in confusion. Calista mouths "stop" to Marvin desperately, without Russell noticing. Marvin speaks reassuringly. Marvin Line 121) It's okay, Calista. He's already caught us. Calista speaks frantically as Marvin reaches for his shades. Calista Line 122) J-jimmy don't�" Marvin takes his shades off, revealing himself to Russell. Russell's eyes glisten in disbelief. To be continued... ____________________________________________________________ Copyright ©2024�"2025 under United States Copyright Office, Library of Congress. All rights reserved. This literary work is protected by the U.S. copyright laws. Reproduction and distribution of the work without permission is prohibited. The offender will be traced and will face the full extent of the legal ramifications as stipulated by the law. Thank you for reading! ♡ ____________________________________________________________ © 2025 YoshAuthor's Note
|
Stats
43 Views
Added on June 12, 2024 Last Updated on March 25, 2025 Tags: #romance, #mentalhealth, #1960s, #action, #drama, #adventure, #charming, #enjoyable, #oldschoollovenewjersey, #lovelanguages, #fluff, #friendstolovers, #comedy, #original, #originalstory, #slowburn Author
|
prev chapter
Share This
Email
Facebook
Twitter
Read Request
My Library
Subscribe
Flag Writing