Page 41 of Character Flaws
Marlon’s voice breaks up our little moment.
“So, Teach. Have you and Birdie selected your leads? Are you going to make us go all weekend before we find out?”
Theo rubs his chin, which is covered with a soft bristle in the color of sand. I shiver, remembering exactly what it felt like against my lips. Oh, how I want to feel that everywhere.
Unfortunately, Theo would more likely want to use it against Marlon’s skin versus mine.
I sigh and take a sip of my beer, which is already flat and warm, the condensation dripping on the coaster.
“Birdie and I had some good discussion around the cast member selection. It’s never an easy decision and we have some very good class members this time around, present company included.”
Marlon’s broad smile is so cute I can’t help but smile too. From the little that I know about Marlon so far, I know he’s destined to make a career out of acting. And I’m glad that Birdie and Theo see his abilities and talent. While I may not be interested in Marlon in a sexual way, I’m proud of him for going after what he wants.
As for me, taking the acting profession seriously is not going to happen. Not only would my mother absolutely freak over the idea that I wasted my expensive degree, but I don’t think I have the type of competitive drive that’s required for acting.
Working actors have to be thick-skinned, with the ability to eschew negative criticism and avoid getting their feelings hurt from rejection and hearing the word ‘no’ audition upon audition.
Or if they do get work, there is always critical feedback about their performances.
I’m not sure I could stomach that. I’m far too sensitive and get my feelings butt-hurt too often. I know some of my teaching colleagues think I’m made of steel and can stick up for myself, but it’s not easy for me.
That’s what’s made it so difficult for me as a teacher. I can’t seem to let things go with the kids and their lives. I invest too much of myself in them and when it doesn’t work out the way I hope it does, I’m devastated.
Marlon finishes his beer and gives Theo a teasing smirk. “You gonna give us an inside scoop? We promise not to tell anyone, right Joey?”
He waggles his eyebrows at me mischeviously, as if we’re in cohoots.
Theo laughs, undeterred. “Not a chance. My lips are sealed.”
And, of course, that leads me to stare right at his lips. The lips that I’m intimately familiar with from that one, very real kiss last night. The ones that have the perfect texture and pressure when they’re smashed against mine.
As if he knows what I’m thinking, Theo smacks his lips together, his eyes gleaming with humor and secrets shared.
Marlon has no clue and hopefully never will. I can totally understand if Theo isn’t into me because of my gender, but there’s no way I want him to fall for Marlon. Even though I’m pretty sure Marlon isn’t into guys, considering he’s been making his moves on me for the past hour, I am jealous of the possibility Theo likes him more.
“And I don’t kiss and tell.”
Theo looks at me knowingly and a thrill passes through me, lighting me up like the stage on opening night.
Damn, him. He’s such a tease.
My stupid body and emotions betray me because I can feel the heat rising along my chest and neck, straight to my face. How the hell can he possibly think I’m a convincing actress if I can’t even hide my feelings toward him?
It’s only a matter of time before the cat’s out of the bag and I make a fool of myself.
Let’s just hope it’s not publicly and I can embarrass us both.
