What's left behind

         

Act 1 – In a train wagon

                   PHOENIX: A woman around 25, wearing a suit.

                   PETER: A man looking slightly younger, very handsome. 

            [PHOENIX is sitting on the train, looking through the window. She brings her hands to her eyes and a tiny sob breaks the silence. PETER comes in and walks toward her. He puts his coat on the seat facing her. He hesitates to sit down, when PHOENIX sobs again.]

PETER:          Are you alright, Miss?

            [PHOENIX brushes her hand against her face in a brusque move, before turning a smiling face toward the man. When her eyes meet PETER’s, her smile breaks a little and she looks stunned. PETER’s lips part a little.]

PHOENIX:    Peter?  What… what a surprise…

            [She seems displeased, yet goes on, forcing a smile back on her face:]

                        How do you do?

PETER: [slightly surprised:]

                        Hmm… fine and you?

PHOENIX: [She coughs a little.]

                        Fine, fine.

            [She pauses and stares out her window, wringing her fingers.]

PETER: [embarrassed:]

                        So you’re going to Paris? It’s funny that we should meet in such a place. 

            [Her gaze gets back on him.]

PHOENIX:    Yes, strange since we haven’t met in more than six years though we both live and work in the same city now…

PETER:          London is pretty big, you know…

PHOENIX: [thoughtful:]

                        It is…

            [She suddenly shakes her head and bites her lower lips, embarrassed.]

                        Sorry, I’m a bit gloomy! Today’s not my day…

            [She flashes an apologetic smile at him. He twists a little in his chair to face her better. She goes on, suddenly enthusiastic:]

            It’s been quite a long time since I’ve had some news! What are you doing now? Did you get your big role?

            [Peter grunts.]

            I don’t go much to the theatre so I didn’t know… I might have missed it…

            [She blushes a little, as if she’d said too much.]

PETER:          You haven’t missed anything. I’m still doing small parts only, though now I’m a regular at the Blue Company.

            [He pauses then adds:]

                        Sometime soon, I’m supposed to get the leading role…

            [PHOENIX smiles softly. PETER fidgets in his seat. A long pause follows during which PHOENIX closes her eyes, with an expression of pain twisting her mouth. When she opens them, she rummages in her bags, takes out a bottle of water and gobbles up two white tablets.]

PETER:          Aspirins?

            [She nods.]

                        I haven’t lost my ability to give you headaches.

            [She laughs whole-heartedly and PETER’s eyes twinkle.]

PHOENIX:    But neither the one to make me laugh!

            [She winks playfully and shows the aspirin pack, before putting it back into her messy bag.]

            I don’t offer you any.

PETER:          No, thanks.

            [They both pause for a few minutes, not making eye-contact. She sighs low, and he twists again, stretching his long legs.]

                        How about your job?

            [She shrugs.]

                        Financial consulting, is that it?

            [She nods, uninterested.]

                        Money mustn’t be an issue for you…

PHOENIX: [Still uninterested:]

                        It isn’t.

            [She bites her lips, and for a split second, she seems on the verge of tears. Yet when she turns her head back to face PETER, she’s unaffected. She snaps though:]

                        Seems like I don’t really have issues.

            [PETER frowns deeply and flashes her a cold look.]

PETER:          That’s not what I said.

            [Pause. She starts to say something yet stops before a word comes out.]

                        Gosh, you weren’t such a jerk back then.

            [She glares at him as he stands up and walks out, then puts a trembling hand on her forehead and eyes. She sighs heavily. After a rather long pause, her cellular phone rings. She takes it out of her bag, checks the number on the screen, frowns and brings it to her ear.]

PHOENIX:    Bonjour, Phoenix Summer, Madame Bertrand?

            [Pause.]

                        Yes, I’m on my way, I’ll be there around 3 in the afternoon. I’m glad the place was available right away.

            [Pause.]

                        Yes my parents were pretty pleased last time.

            [Pause.]

                        Three months, yes… I’m taking a break from work…

            [She laughs a little, ruefully.]

                        Yes a well deserved holiday…

            [Pause.]

                        I’ll be sure to tell them. Right, I’ll see you this afternoon.

            [She hangs up and sighs heavily again. Her gaze flies to her reflection in the window. With a few brusque gestures, she puts her hair in order. PETER comes in at this time, making her jump.]

PETER:          Sorry about that.

            [He searches her face, intently.]

PHOENIX:     Never mind, I’m a bit tense.

            [He sits himself down, holds out a coke can to her and opens one for himself.]

PETER:           You didn’t switch to diet coke, did you?

            [She shakes her head and a gurgle of laughter escapes her throat.]

PHOENIX: Thanks.

            [Then with a guilty grimace:]           

                        Sorry about earlier.

            [He shrugs and smiles hesitantly. She opens her can.]

PETER:          So how’s your work? Or is that a taboo question?

PHOENIX: [She sips some coke, then twists her head a little.]

                        No, it’s all right. Not quite fulfilling, but that’s because of me, not because of the job I guess…

            [She sighs a little, then, embarrassed, laughs softly.]

                        Sorry, again. It feels like I’ve grown old. I’m not very good company.

            [PETER shrugs again but looks unsettled.]

PETER:          Well, we’ve all grown old. Look at me…

            [He pauses.]

PHOENIX: [sweetly:]

                        You look good.

            [She blushes and adds:]

                        I mean you still look young and enthusiastic. Like you have plenty of time left to…

            [She stops midway, suddenly confused. Her eyes go out of focus, and she swallows with difficulty. PETER watches her, slightly anguished, not daring to talk. There’s a long silence during which she stares blankly out of the window, while he gazes at her profile.]

PETER: [softly:]

            What’s up Phoenix? You’re not all right, are you?

PHOENIX: [very low:]

            I’m fine.

            [PETER fidgets uneasily yet keeps his eyes on her. A few tears run down her cheeks but she brushes them away with the back of her hand. PETER coughs and averts his eyes.]

PETER:          It’s ok to be a bit out of it sometimes. See, I’ve just turned 26, and I haven’t had a single meaningful role so far! And now my company’s gone to New York to perform but hasn’t taken me along. But that’s not enough, my flat mate just kicked me out and I have no cash at all to rent a new place on my own…So I’m left for the next few months with nothing to do and no place to crash at.    [He starts to laugh nonchalantly but chokes himself when he sees she’s weeping even more. He passes a hand through his hair with a nervous gesture. PHOENIX brushes away her tears again and forces a grin on her reddened face.]

PHOENIX:    That’s harsh, what about your mom?

PETER: [slightly relieved:]

                        I can’t. She just got remarried…

            [PHOENIX’s mouth makes a surprised “oh” as PETER’s eyes meet hers steadily.]

PHOENIX: [over-enthusiastic:]      

                        That’s great!

PETER:          Depends for whom…

PHOENIX: [innocently:]

                        Oh, I’m sorry. I mean, it’s good for her…

            [PETER smiles ruefully.]

PETER:          Yeah, you’re right. It just happened to be bad timing for me.

            [She nods, thoughtful.]

PHOENIX:    Why are you going to Paris, then?

            [He shrugs.]

PETER:          I got a few friends, who told me to drop by any time so…

            [He pauses.]

                        I’ll try and stay there a week or two…

            [He pauses.]

                        Did you write that book?

            [She turns her eyes away from him.]

PHOENIX:    No. I didn’t have the time, nor the will.

            [They relapse into silence.]

                        You want to crash at my place?

            [She blushes.]

                        I mean, you can have the keys of my London flat.

            [She pauses shortly.]

                        I’m leaving town for a few months, so it’s free…

            [PETER looks stunned for a split second then gazes at her with a serious expression. PHOENIX rummages through her handbag and take out a bunch of keys.]

PETER:          I don’t know what’s up with you Phoenix…

PHOENIX:    Well, nothing. It’s just that if it can help you, I don’t see the problem.

PETER:          You don’t see the problem in giving your flat keys to a man you haven’t seen in seven years?

            [She shrugs and stares blankly at him.]

PHOENIX:    I trust you.

PETER:          That’s not the point.

PHOENIX:    I don’t have anything valuable.

PETER:          That’s not the issue either.

PHOENIX: [annoyed:]

                        I don’t need any of it anyway!

            [Her eyes sparkle with tears but she forces them back. PETER gives her a shocked look yet says nothing.]

                        Do you want them, or what?

PETER:          No.

PHOENIX: [mad:]

                        I’m not expecting anything in return, you know!

PETER:          I know. That’s not why I’m refusing.

            [She shrugs and puts the keys back into her bag. She goes back to staring out the window. He gazes at her for a few minutes.]

PETER:          What are you going to do during the months you’re not inLondon? Are you staying in Paris?

PHOENIX:    I’m gonna stay in the Alpes for a few months… see if I can write something interesting bef…

            [She stops.]

PETER:          Before what?

PHOENIX:    Nothing.

            [He watches her as she presses her lips against her closed fist.]

PETER:          You already had that tic back then. I thought it made you look intellectual.

            [She laughs a little.]

PHOENIX:    Thanks, now I know why you rejected me.

            [He’s going to say something but she cuts him.]

                        Don’t worry, I was young and foolish. Now I’m ok. I’m not gonna come after you.

            [She grins.]

PETER: [pensive:]

                        I thought you were getting married…

PHOENIX:    We broke up.

            [They both pause, absorbed by their inner thoughts. From time to time, PETER glances at her, as she wrings her fingers. Suddenly, he smiles sweetly.]

PETER:          I liked your writing.   The words sounded like they were molded for me…

            [She gives a short laugh, but avoids his gaze. He watches her in silence for some long moments. Then he asks with a low serious voice:]

                        What’s wrong with you, Phoenix?

PHOENIX: [She withstands his gaze for a few minutes before answering coolly:]

                        I’ve got brain cancer. I’ve got 2 or 3 months left.

         

Act 2 – In the main room of a small chalet.

                  PHOENIX: Wearing pajamas.

                   PETER: Wearing jeans and T-shirt. 

            [PHOENIX is sitting at the table in front of her laptop. PETER is lying on the sofa, his eyes closed. PHOENIX types in silence for a few minutes before stretching with a loud yawn.]

PHOENIX:    That’s it for this morning.

PETER: [without opening his eyes:]

                        You’re done?

PHOENIX:    Yes. I’ll start over around five.

PETER:          Cool, how long before you’re dressed and all?

            [He groans.]

                        Lunch’s already ready…

             [She laughs nonchalantly.]

PHOENIX:    I’m sorry, I know you’re hungry. You should have gone ahead and started eating.

            [He grunts and sits in the sofa.]

PETER:          As I only accepted to stay here to work for you, I don’t think I could have, no!

            [PHOENIX flashes him a slightly annoyed look.]

PHOENIX:    If you say that again, I’ll start paying you wages for every chore you do in the house.

PETER:          Then I’ll pay you the rent.

PHOENIX:    Ok, ok, stop that, I’ll get changed at once.

            [She walks out of the room after removing the computer from the table. PETER stands up and lays the table for two. Then, waiting for her to come back, he strolls through the room putting back things in place here and checking a magazine there. With a sigh, he stops in front of the computer and hesitates to take a look. He sits on the sofa with another sigh, and lets his head hang backward, keeping his eyes wide opened.]

PETER:          What the hell am I doing here?

            [He jumps up again, walks to the door through which she’s left, reaches for the door, but changes his mind.]

                        Phoenix, aren’t you done yet?

PHOENIX: [From the other side of the door:]

                        Almost, I’m putting on my jeans!

            [Some footsteps are heard and she comes back in, wearing jeans and T-shirt, her hair still wet.]

PETER: [with a hint of impatience:]

                        Shouldn’t you dry your hair? You’ve already got a cold.

PHOENIX: [laughing:]

                        You’re such a worrywart! It’s almost dry, it’s ok.

            [She coughs a little. He walks to her and takes a few strands of her hair in his large hands.]

PETER:          You call that almost dry? They’re still soaked.

            [He strides out of the room. He comes back with a towel that he throws at her astonished face. She coughs a little once more.]

                        Here you go. Rub your head!

            [She obeys in a daze. He brings food to the table, avoiding her eyes. He then sits himself at the table and scrutinizes her as she dries her hair conscientiously. Once she’s done, she drops the towel on a chair, and sits down facing him. She smiles shyly as he keeps gazing at her.]

PHOENIX:    Thanks.

            [She glances at the food and grins broadly.]

                        That looks great!

            [For a split second, PETER’s face lightens then it goes back to his serious expression.]

                        I’m still amazed at how good a cook you are.

PETER:          It’s the secret of the great MAYA.

            [PHOENIX burst out laughing and PETER’s mood seems to lift.]

PHOENIX:    Oh, come on! Isn’t it time you tell me who’s this great Maya and what’s her secret? You’ve been repeating this silly phrase for more than a month now!

            [PETER shakes his head, grinning like a kid.]

PETER: [with a low arcane voice:]

                        No, a secret is meant to be kept.

            [PHOENIX gives off a disappointed sigh and puts on a pout. PETER serves her some mashed potatoes and stew, ignoring her puppy eyes.]

                        You’ve got to eat everything!

PHOENIX: [brightly]

                        If I do, will you tell me?

PETER: No. It is a Se-cret… I’m not telling.

            [A bright laugh escapes her which makes PETER’s eyes widen a little.]

PHOENIX:    What about a deal? If you tell me, you can ask me about something se-cret too!

            [PETER considers the deal for a few seconds, twisting his head a little.]

                        Come on! After all these years, there must be something you want to ask!

PETER: [thoughtful]

                        Yes, there is.

            [He holds out his hand.]

                        Deal!

            [She takes his hand with a victorious laugh.]

                        You still have to finish your plate.

PHOENIX:    Yes sir!

            [She mimics a military salute.]

                        So who’s Maya and what’s her great secret?

PETER:          You’re gonna be disappointed, but… there’s no coming back on your word?

            [She lifts her right hand dutifully.]

PHOENIX:    Promise!

PETER:          Right. Maya’s the name of my mum.

            [Her eyes twinkle and her smile broadens as he glances at her, embarrassed.]

                        My father was the one doing the cooking. She’s always hated doing it. When Dad died, she forced me to learn how to cook with her and I ended up almost always being the one making meals… That’s how I became quite skilled.

            [She laughs softly, watching him fidget.]

PHOENIX:    Don’t make that face, it’s a sweet story. It’s less embarrassing than an ex-girlfriend making you her cooking slave.

            [She grins at him. Though he keeps a tight mouth, his eyes twinkle. PHOENIX swallows a few mouthfuls.]

            So what do you want to know?

            [He shrugs and she opens wide eyes.]

PETER:          Finish your food. I don’t know yet what I’d rather ask you.

            [PHOENIX nods, with a curious glance at him.]

                        Did you write well this morning?

PHOENIX:    Yes, I came up with a short story I find promising…

            [She engulfs another few mouthfuls.]

                        It’s not finished though.

PETER:          Can I read some of the text you’ve written so far?

PHOENIX: [surprised]

                        Yes, sure! I’ll be glad if you read the ones I already reviewed. I mean if you want…

            [She pauses.]

                        I didn’t offer to let you read them, since I thought you weren’t interested…

PETER:          Why would you think that?

            [PHOENIX finishes her plate.]

PHOENIX:    Since we came here, you haven’t asked anything about my writing.

            [He frowns. She shows him her plate.]

                        I finished everything. Happy?

            [He nods.]

PETER:          I thought your texts might be very personal…

PHOENIX:    [with a forced laugh:]

                        I’m not writing my will.

            [PETER’s face falls in shock and her smile turns into a grimace of uneasiness. PETER stands up and clears the table in a tense silence. When he’s done, he walks to the sofa and lies down with a sigh, bringing his hands over his closed eyes.]

PETER:          Don’t laugh like that Phoenix. I can’t take it…

PHOENIX: [her eyes out of focus:]

                        I’m sorry, Peter.

            [She stands up and walks to the door leading to the room.]

PETER:          Wait, don’t go!

            [He pauses.]

                        Why won’t you at least try a treatment?

PHOENIX:   I already told you everything. They explained that even with a treatment, I had max three months left, so I don’t see the point. I couldn’t be here, I’d be sick from the treatment. But, look at me now, I’m not ill, I only have these headaches from time to time and even that, I’ve grown used to it. It’s not even getting worse…

            [Peter sits himself on the couch but lowers his head to avoid her eyes.]

PETER:          [very low, almost for himself:]

                        Still…

PHOENIX:    I’m really sorry, Peter.

            [She goes sit next to him but is cautious not to touch him. When she talks again, she speaks softly, her voice shaking.]

                        I didn’t think it would be this upsetting… Maybe if you’re… uneasy with the situation, you should… hmm… leave this place.  

            [She pauses, pensive and out of focus.]

                        You can have my flat keys…

            [PETER lifts his head to flash her a dirty glare. Her eyes shine. She lowers her head. PETER stands up and wanders in the room.]

PETER:          The company director called me yesterday. I’ll play Byron in his next production. Something like the poet’s life…

PHOENIX: [beaming]

                        That’s great! I hope I can see…

            [Her voice breaks as she encounters his angry gaze.]

                        I mean, that’s brilliant you got your first major role. After all this time…

PETER:          Yes.

            [There’s a long pause during which they both look disorientated. Finally she installs her computer on the table again and starts typing again. PETER after strolling through the room like a caged animal comes stand behind her. She keeps writing. He places his hands on her shoulder, and talks low.]

                        Why this? Why writing? Was that really that important?

PHOENIX: [her gaze fixed on her computer]

                        It is. Maybe that way I’ll feel that I’ve done one thing I really wanted.

PETER:          What about your family? What about your friends?

            [She shrugs.]

PHOENIX:    When I feel things going bad, I’ll go see my family… I don’t think I’ve any friends left…

            [She pauses for a few minutes, lost in her recollection.]

                        I was unsatisfied…I overworked… I just drifted away. At least when I am writing I feel whole for a short moment. That’s what I want if I can choose…

            [PETER looks stunned. He walks to the sofa and sits down, weary. He laughs ruefully.]

PETER:          You’re pretty cold-hearted, dammit!

            [She turns toward him, astonished. But her surprise changes into annoyance when she meets his reproaching gaze.]

PHOENIX:    I thought you’d understand, if anyone could.

PETER:          Understand what? That there is no place for love in your life?

            [She glares at him fiercely but keeps her mouth shut tight.]

                        You’re a strange woman.

            [He lies back on the couch. She goes back to her writing, biting her lips. After her few minutes, she brushes the back of her hand on her cheeks and coughs a little.]

                        I never really could understand you.

            [She coughs again. He goes on with a smile in his voice:]

                        Yet we had a good time in high school.

            [He pauses, recollecting his memories.]

                        I never got bored with you around… College was pretty lonely afterwards.

            [She stops typing and puts her head in her hands, coughing again.]

                        Oh, here’s my question! You gotta answer it sincerely.

            [He clears his throat.]

                        Why did you break up with that guy?

            [She sighs heavily.]

PHOENIX: [low]

                        You had to ask now…

            [louder:]

                        He asked me to marry him…

            [She pauses and gets lost in her recollection.]

PETER:          And? You got cold-feet?

PHOENIX:    No. The moment he asked me, I realized I didn’t love him enough.

            [She smiles sadly.]

PETER: [abruptly]    

                        Why?

PHOENIX: [amused]

                        I don’t know.

PETER:          I can see when you lie. Your eyes flint.

            [She shrugs.]

                        Come on, you said you’d tell me!

            [She thumps her fist on the table and stands up.]

PHOENIX:    I don’t know what you want Peter, but I’m tired.

            [She walks to the door, but he gets up and catches her hand.]

PETER:          Wait, please. I’m sorry.

            [He passes a hand through his hair, embarrassed.]

                        You’re the only one who has ever been able to deal with my bad manners…

            [She shakes her head, dubious.]

                        I don’t want you to go.

            [He stares longingly into her eyes.]

                        I never know how to deal with you, but dealing without you is much worse…

            [He grabs her hand tightly, and she freezes stunned. Her eyes fill up with tears, but she looks strangely peaceful.]

PHOENIX:    I’m sorry, Peter. I never meant to do this to you…

            [She tries to dry her tears with the back of her hand but they’re overflowing.]

                        I’ve never been able to love anyone like I love you. But I accepted it a long time ago. There can be only you. I won’t feel whole otherwise… But as long as I can forget… It is okay…

            [She wants to wipe her face with her free hand, but he grabs it. He pulls her to him and kisses both her cheeks very gently, then her mouth harsher. She puts her arms around him, while he keeps kissing her and embracing her tightly. He then lifts her swiftly from her feet and they disappear through the door. The light goes off and everything remains silent for a moment. Then steps can be heard and the light comes back as PHOENIX walks into the main room again.]

PHOENIX:    Peter?

            [She strides to the table frowning, and grabs a sheet of paper. As she reads it, she starts to chuckle nervously. The chuckle turns briskly into sobs shaking her whole body and she hardly manages to lie on the couch. The light slowly fades.]

         Act 3 – In a dark place

                  PHOENIX: 18 year-old.

                   PETER: 18 year-old.

            [The lights are off. Only a spot follows the two characters. Around them everything remains dark. PHOENIX is sitting at a desk reading a thick book, pressing her closed fist against her mouth. PETER strides in and puts a hand on her table.]

PETER: Hi there!

            [She lifts her head to meet his look.]

PHOENIX:    Hi…uh…

PETER: [holding out his hand:]

                        Peter. You’re Phoenix, right?

PHOENIX: [smiling though a bit surprised:]

                        Yes. Nice to meet you, Peter.

            [She takes his hand and shakes it. He detains her.]

PETER:          I like the questions you ask in literature.

            [He stares deep into her eyes.]

                        You got pretty eyes.

            [She blushes a little and he smirks, satisfied. He lets go of her hand.]

                        See you in literature!

            [He turns back and walks to the door.]

PHOENIX:    Peter!

            [He stops and smiles at her.]

                        You got a nice butt.

            [She grins at his stunned look and winks.]

                        See you in literature!

            [The light goes off then on again. They’re standing next to each other and they perform the beginning of the song Turn On Your Love Light from the Blue Brothers 2000 wearing black suits and sun glasses. Then as the music goes on they perform the jive. The music fades and the light goes off then on again. PETER is sitting at a desk, absent-minded. PHOENIX walks in.]

PHOENIX:    Hi, Peter!

PETER: [absently:]

                        Hi.

PHOENIX:    Your mother called yesterday to invite me to dinner, today. Is that ok if I come?

            [PETER still gazes blankly in front of him. PHOENIX waves a hand in front of him and as he doesn’t answer, she puts her forehead on his.]

                        Good god! So it’s really empty behind these pretty eyes.

            [She giggles as he pushes her away, embarrassed, then goes on, whispering.]

                        Happily, they’re dark enough, no one will notice.

PETER: [tense:]        

                        Come on, drop the childish act.

PHOENIX: [cold:]

                        Ok… Sorry, I didn’t know you had your periods.

            [She turns back to leave but he catches her hand.]

PETER:          No, sorry Phoenix. I’m out of it today. Please come tonight…

            [She watches him softly.]

PHOENIX:    Are you ok?

            [She brushes the back of her hand on his cheek and he blushed vividly. He stands up.]

PETER:          Yes, I’m ok. See you later.

            [He walks out. The light goes off and on again. PHOENIX is sitting at a desk writing, deep in her thoughts. PETER comes in and wraps his arms around her shoulders. She jumps in surprise.]

PETER:          Guess what!

            [PHOENIX turns her head toward him and he’s forced to let go. She stares eagerly at him.]

PHOENIX:    What? Is it what I think?

PETER:          Yes! Your text and my skill got me to the final! I have to replay it next Saturday. The audience will be larger.

            [She jumps from her chair and throws herself at his neck.]

PHOENIX:    Pete, you’re great! I knew you’d do it.

            [She distances herself a little and high-fives him. They stared at each other delighted. After a short moment, he chuckles and wraps his arms around her to kiss her cheek.]

PETER:          It’s thanks to you and your directing skills.

            [The light goes off and on again. They’re facing each other. PETER’s sitting on the desk. PHOENIX is fidgeting. After a few minutes of avoiding his curious look, she whispers.]

PHOENIX:    I’m not taking literature. I’ve decided to major in economics.

            [PETER stands up, frowning in shock.]

PETER:          You’re kidding? I thought you…

            [He pauses annoyed.]

                        You never intended to study literature.

            [PHOENIX shrugs.]

                        Well, you never said so. I’m so dumb. I just thought…

            [He pauses, with a smirk.]

                        You’re not attending the local College...

            [PHOENIX shakes her head.]

PHOENIX:    I’m going to study in London.

            [PETER glares at her, and she fidgets.]

                        Peter…

            [She’s begging:]

                        We’ll stay the same.

PETER:          No, we won’t.

            [He pauses.]

                        What about your writing?

PHOENIX:    I’m not like you. I need something steadier.

PETER:          See! I already don’t know you anymore.

            [He turns back and waves his hand.]

                        Thanks for letting me know. Send me a postcard fromLondon once in a while if you get the time.

            [He walks out. In a daze, she puts both hands on her cheeks. The lights go off and on again after a few minutes. They’re facing each other, wearing casual clothes.]

PHOENIX:    I’m in love with you, Peter.

PETER:          I’m sorry. There’s no point in telling me this.

            [The lights go off.]

        Act 4 – In M. WATERMOOR’s dining room.

                  PHOENIX: wearing a skirt and blouse.

                   PETER: in jeans and T-shirt.

                   M.WATERMOOR: wearing a black suit.

                   HIS WIFE MAYA

            [The table has been laid for four. PETER is sitting casually on a chair, reading a script. M. WATERMOOR comes in and takes off his tie.]

M.WATERMOOR:   Hi Peter! How was today?

PETER: [looking up from his book]

                                   Good. I found a new place, and I just received the script.

            [He waves the sheets in his hands.]              

M.WATERMOOR:   That’s great! When are you starting the rehearsal?

PETER:                      In two weeks, if everything goes smoothly. Everyone just came back from New York, so they need a little rest…

            [He pauses and glances at the table.]

                                   Is there someone dining with us tonight?

M.WATERMOOR: [nodding:]

                                   Yes, a young co-worker that’s just gone through a few hardships. She must be around your age.

            [PETER’s gaze becomes distant, uninterested.]

                                   She’s very lively, you’ll see.

            [PETER bites his lips, but forces himself to laugh nonchalantly.]

PETER:                      I hope she’s pretty then.

M.WATERMOOR: [twisting his head a little:]

                                   I think she’s the kind you like. She’s got sparkling eyes.

PETER: [coolly]

                                   Where is she by the way?

M.WATERMOOR:   Parking her car…

            [There’s a knock on the door.]

                                   Right…

            [MAYA comes in running through the room.]

MAYA:                      I’ll get the door!

            [M.WATERMOOR and PETER look at each other chuckling a little. MAYA opens the door and PHOENIX comes in.]

                                   Good god! What a surprise! Phoenix my dear, it’s been a long time!

            [MAYA embraces PHOENIX like a long lost child, PETER looks at PHOENIX in utter shock, PHOENIX’s smile freezes a little and M.WATERMOOR seems confused.]

                                   Did you come to see Peter?

M.WATERMOOR:   You know each other?

MAYA:                      She was Pete’s friend all through high school!

            [She pauses to think.]

                                   You mean she’s your co-worker? What a coincidence! Peter, what’s up with you? Don’t you recognize Phoenix?

            [PETER comes out of his daze and smiles sickly at PHOENIX, his eyes searching her face with anguish. He walks very slowly to her and shakes her hand mechanically.]

PETER:                      How do you do, Phoenix? It’s been a long time…

            [PHOENIX’s shocked expression turns cold, but PETER’s eyes keep searching her face.]

PHOENIX:                I’m doing strangely well…

M.WATERMOOR:   Oh Good God yes! That’s the most awkward story I’ve ever heard! But come in, Dear, let’s sit!

MAYA:                      Yes, let’s sit down! You look a little pale, you must be tired! It’s already quite late.

M.WATERMOOR:   Yes, it’s my fault Maya.

            [He kisses her wife apologetically on the cheek. All through this exchange, PETER’s eyes rest on PHOENIX’s face, as if he’s not too sure that he’s really awake. They all sit down but MAYA who leaves the room. M.WATERMOOR pours everyone some red wine.]

PETER:                      Maybe she’d prefer coke.

            [M.WATERMOOR looks up confused. PHOENIX shakes her head smiling sweetly at M.WATERMOOR but staring coolly at PETER.]

PHOENIX:                I’m fine with wine.

            [MAYA comes in with a big dish of stew.]

MAYA:                      You must be starving!

            [MAYA goes out again to come back in with another huge dish containing mashed potatoes. PHOENIX can’t help a smile. PETER is still in a daze and M.WATERMOOR flashes him curious glances from time to time.] 

PHOENIX:                It looks delicious!

MAYA:                      Thanks dear, I hope you’ll like it.

            [MAYA starts serving the food and they all start eating.]

M.WATERMOOR:   So I was telling you how poor Phoenix went through a three-month nightmare!

            [PETER gets back into focus.]

                                   But Phoenix you should be the one telling this story!

            [PHOENIX coughs a little to clear her throat and glances at PETER with a tiny smirk.]

PHOENIX:                I tend to have very strong headaches but a few months ago it started getting worse so I went to get an MRI.

MAYA:                      Dear, that’s definitely from working too much if you’re still the same as in high school…

            [PHOENIX nods with a smile.]

PHOENIX:                But they diagnosed a terminal brain cancer. Inoperable. They told me even with chemo, I’d live no longer than three months.

MAYA:                      Good God! Are you…

PHOENIX:                Happily it was all a mistake!

            [PHOENIX glances at PETER whose face has become livid.]

                                    As crazy as it seems, they had messed up my file with another P. Summer.

            [After some thinking:]

                                   I think her first name was Penelope…

            [PETER chokes a little.]

MAYA:                      Good gracious! That’s criminal! What if you’d just killed yourself out of despair?

PHOENIX:                Well, I didn’t. But I ran off, not getting a second diagnosis, I just took a three-month holiday and went to the mountain to write a few stories I’d wanted to write for a long time.

            [MAYA’s eyes go round while M.WATERMOOR nods in an enthusiastic way.]

M.WATERMOOR:   And now they’re getting published!

MAYA and PETER [together:]

                                   Really?

PHOENIX:                Some of them are.

            [PHOENIX sips some wine and meets PETER’s gaze challengingly. He looks down and gobbles a few mouthfuls.]

MAYA:                      That’s great, Phoenix! And here Peter’s getting his first great role…

PHOENIX: [taunting:]

                                   Are you Peter?

PETER:                      Hmm

MAYA:                      He’s playing Byron.

PHOENIX: [treacherously smooth:]

                                   That’s great. I’ll come see you then. Now I feel like I have so much time to enjoy life…

            [PETER chokes and has to excuse himself for a few minutes. He walks out.]

MAYA: [thoughtful:]

                                   Yes, it must change one’s way of seeing life…

PHOENIX:                It does. When I thought I had time, it seems there was nothing I really wanted to do. But then when I thought I was going to die, I started moving and changing things. I know it’s quite banal what I’m saying but feeling it and saying it are two different things, I guess…

            [She smiles very sweetly at MAYA who’s looking at her softly.]

MAYA:                      I’m happy you’re well.

M.WATERMOOR:   Yes, that’s such a story! Happily you didn’t do anything rash!

            [PETER comes in. Some of his color is back.]

PETER:                      When did you learn you weren’t gonna die, Phoenix?

PHOENIX:                When I came home, last week. I had a letter from the hospital.

M.WATERMOOR:   It’s a good thing you didn’t tell anyone about it. What a mess it would have been!

            [PETER’s eyes throw daggers and PHOENIX smirks a little.]

PHOENIX:                I did tell one person.

M.WATERMOOR:   Really? What happened then?

PHOENIX:                They ran off, never to be seen again…

MAYA: [shakes her head in disgust]

                                   Must have been your boyfriend I guess. Men can be so disappointing sometimes. But you’re better off without that jerk!

            [PHOENIX shrugs and giggles. PETER stands up brusquely.]

PETER:                      I’ll bring the dessert.

MAYA:                      Thanks, Pete. Can you take off the plates, please?

            [PETER obeys in silence and strides out.]

M.WATERMOOR:   He’s in a weird mood tonight, isn’t he?

MAYA:                      He’s been depressed since he came back from France.

M.WATERMOOR:   He must have been dumped by a woman.

MAYA: [twisting her head:]

                                   It doesn’t sound like him. Only during high school would he get that worked up. You remember, Phoenix?

            [PHOENIX chokes a little on her wine. PETER comes back in and meets PHOENIX curious look. Unsettled, he avoids her eyes. He serves the chocolate cake.]

M.WATERMOOR: Wait, I have champagne! It’s an occasion we have to celebrate. To your life and this fortunate reunion!

            [He hurries out.]

MAYA:          Wait!

            [She looks at PHOENIX.]

                        I gotta go help him. I’ve put the bottles away, he won’t find them.

            [She follows M.WATERMOOR out. PETER and PHOENIX are left on their own. A tense silence arises.]

PETER: [hesitant:]

                        I’m glad you’re doing fine.

            [PHOENIX bites her lips, and brushes the back of her hand on her cheek. She avoids meeting his look. PETER keeps devouring her face with his eyes. She fidgets in her chair.]

                        I love you, Phoenix.

            [PHOENIX chokes and coughs. She stands up abruptly, imitated by PETER, who reaches for her hand. Her eyes sparkle dangerously.]

                        I love you.

PHOENIX: [Her voice is trembling.]

                        I gotta go.

            [He doesn’t let go of her hand. She doesn’t move.]

PETER:          You still love me. You always will.

            [She slaps him hard, her eyes murderous. He tightens his grip over her hand.]

PHOENIX:    It’s easy for you, isn’t it?

            [She bites her lips and tears run down her cheeks. He holds onto her hand and they stare at each other unable to say anything. The light fades on them.]

CURTAIN