Page 65 of Fan Favorite

“Oh my god, he doesnot.”

“This makes me like Peter more. He’s got taste. Who knew?”

“Max, be serious. Look at him. He’s gorgeous. He’s rich. Jessa says he datesmodels. He’s theshowrunner. He can’t likeme.”

“So?” Max shrugged. “You’re gorgeous. Maybe not rich, but you’re employed. And you’re funny and smart and kind, and honestly, he’d be lucky to go out with you. You’re a catch.”

“I’m drunk.” Edie took another swig of wine. “I’m doing that thing where I fantasize things into being that aren’t there. That’s how I ended up on this show in the first place! I’m here to get engaged toBennett.”

“You don’t seem that drunk.” Max pursed her lips in thought. “Here’s what I think: Besides making new friends, the best part about being here—about being away from our whole lives—is that it’sclarifying. And here’s what I know for sure.” She paused dramatically. “Bennett’s an idiot.”

They burst out laughing. Bennettwassort of an idiot. But wasn’t he also adorable? And wasn’t his idiocy just insecurity weaseling its way out? It was charming. When they were talking about how they first met, Edie could tell he was nervous that she might say something that might not fit into this whole world he was building. And she just wanted to tell him,Charlie, you’re fine, it’s all fine.But she didn’t even have to because he’d recovered, all on his own. And then they’d had that moment of connection over the kindergarten cafeteria, and it was a moment you couldn’t really even explain to someone else. It was just thisknowing.

But then something occurred to Edie.

“Wait, does this mean you’re leaving the show?” she asked, a little hysterical. Edie crawled over to Max’s side of the room and plopped down beside her. “Because I don’t want you to leave. I need you here.” She hooked her arm through Max’s and laid her head on Max’s shoulder.

“Please.” Max laid her head on top of Edie’s. “I’m going on whatever the big trip is. I’ve come all this way, and Bennett Charles owes me an adventure.”

“You know, my best friend Lauren, she might be perfect for you,” Edie began.

“Pepper, don’t do that thing where you try to set me up with the only other lesbian you know.”

“She’s pretty great though.” Edie elbowed Max in the side. “Just sayin’.”

TAKE 5 PRODUCTIONS

THE KEY

ZO SNEAKS INTO BENNETT’S ROOM

TAPE #412

____________________

00:00:00 THE MIDDLE OF THE NIGHT. A KNOCK AT THE DOOR.

ZO: I’ll never stop fighting for Bennett’s heart.

THE DOOR OPENS. BENNETT BLINKING, CONFUSED, IN HIS UNDERWEAR.

ZO: Can I come in?

ZO AND BENNETT ON THE BED. SHE SLITHERS ALL OVER HIM.

ZO: I had to see you.

BENNETT: Mmm…

ZO: I couldn’t stand it anymore, knowing you were withher.

BENNETT: Trust the process. Believe in us.

ZO HOLDS HIS FACE IN HER HANDS.

ZO: I’m falling in love with you.

He doesn’t say anything for a moment.

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