A short piece for all genders.
[Pause]
[A reaches over and squeezes B’s shoulders]
[They smile, maybe giggle a little.]
[B reaches over and begins to grab A’s hand.]
A: Don’t…
B: What?
A: Just…
B: What?
A: Just don’t…please
B: Are you ok?
A: It’s just…
B: It’s just what?
A: It’s just…
B: Just what… What is it?
A: I can’t…
B: What is it?
A: It feels a little bit…
B: A little bit what?
A: Inappropriate…
B: Inappropriate?
A: Yeah, you know…
B: Inappropriate?
A: I don’t feel it’s appropriate – it makes me feel… uncomfortable.
B: Really?
A: Yes. I’m sorry. I just…
B: Ok.
A: I’m sorry.
B: It’s ok…
A: I’m sorry. I don’t want to make you feel…
B: No. No. It’s ok. Honestly.
A: Look, I’m sorry. I just don’t do that kind of thing.
B: Alright…
A: It’s not just you. It would be same with anyone.
B: Anyone?
A: Yeah…anyone. I don’t do that…
B: Alright…
[Pause]
A: I’ve offended you now.
B: No, it’s ok. I understand.
A: I don’t mean to offend you.
B: You haven’t.
A: I really am sorry. It just feels weird.
B: Nobody minds.
A: I know they don’t. I just…
B: I know… you can’t…
A: I just don’t want everyone to see.
B: I know…
A: …
B: Don’t worry about it.
A: But I am.
B: Look, you either hold my hand or you don’t. It’s not the end of the world!
A: Sorry.
B: Can I do this?
[They put their hand on A’s knee.]
A: Not really…
B: But I can kiss you.
A: Yes.
B: In public?
A: I suppose. As long as it’s…
B: …not too long?
A: Yes. And not too romantic…
B: But I can’t hold your hand.
A: No.
B: Ok.
A: Are you ok with that?
B: Yes.
[A kisses B on the cheek.]
[B smiles.]
B: Thank you.
[A smiles.]
[END.]
PHILIPPA MANNION 