::Roger Klotz anxiously paced the school yard waiting for the afternoon bell to ring. Thanks to a certain so called pal of his, namely Doug Funnie, Roger was forced to stay home from school today and he was itching for revenge.
Yesterday during lunch, Roger was debating on starting a food fight and he held a slab of the horrible Magic Meat in his hand, poised and ready to fling at the nearest loser he could find. Unfortunately he chose his attack position in front of the cafeteria door and he got booted in the back with it by an unaware Doug. The sudden surprise of being hit with the door caused Roger to carelessly fling the meat away and it soared over his intended target and instead nailed Mr. Bone, the school vice principal, right in the face.
Roger knew it was useless to hide or try to talk his way out of it because Mr. Bone would never believe that it was just an accident. So, he just stood there awaiting his normal punishment of detention. However, Mr. Bone was more upset about this then usual and gave Roger a one day suspension from school on top of the detention scheduled for the weekend.
This infuriated Roger, but he couldn't do anything to Doug at this point. Instead he stomped out of the cafeteria and made his way to the principal's office to get the note he needed to take home to his mother. Of course Edwina, Mrs. Klotz, was unhappy with her son's behaviour and told him that he had to stop clowning around in school and start taking things seriously or he'd be held back yet again.
Roger protested trying to explain, but Edwina wouldn't hear it and sent him to his room so he could think about what he had done. This was not how a rich guy should be treated! he thought angrily to himself as he stormed up the stairs. "It's not fair!" he shouted from his bedroom door before he slammed it shut with such force the whole house seemed to shake in his rage.
Roger sat down heavily on his bed and grumbled about how stupid and unfair all of this was and that Doug was really going to get it come tomorrow. Although Doug had no clue that Roger was standing on the other side of the door and didn't mean to hit him, it still made Roger feel good to pass the blame onto someone other then himself. Logic would say that if he wasn't trying to start a food fight to begin with this never would have happened, but logic like that didn't work on Roger Klotz.
The next day was slow and boring and any other kid would have welcomed a day off from school, but Roger couldn't allow joy this time. All that was on his mind was revenge and the only way he knew he could get it and fully satisfy himself was if he creamed Doug after school. It was crude and simple, but very effective. A good pounding is what that goody goody deserved and it would be enough to appease Roger as well.
At about 2:30 Roger jumped on his bike and rode quickly to Beebe Bluff Middle School and there he waited, leaning against a tree, arms folded tightly against his chest. The bell finally rang promptly at 3:00 and for the first time since yesterday Roger actually perked up. He snickered and slapped his fist into the palm of his other hand a few times and stepped forward, away from the tree, so he could wait for Doug to exit the building. A slow, sinister smirk spread across his face as he spotted his prey and he strode forward to confront him.
Skeeter Valentine was at Doug's side as usual and he noticed Roger first. "Umm...Doug? I think Roger's looking for you and he doesn't look too pleased, man."
Doug turned and stopped in his tracks as he watched the bully heading his way, scowling. Doug tugged at his collar and tried his best to smile. "H-hello Roger. I'm really sorry about what happened yesterday. I had no idea that you..."
"Can it Funnie! I ain't here for no sob story from you. You're gonna get it for getting me in trouble with Mr. Bone and my mom!" He then quickly reached forward and grabbed the front of Doug's green sweater and held his arm back, fist ready to strike. Skeeter was about to jump in and try to stop this senseless act, but the look on Roger's face alone told him it was best to stay out of it. "Say your prayers, Funnie," Roger snarled.
Doug squeezed his eyes shut and waited for the pounding he knew he was going to get when a car horn made him jump. "Come on, Dougie, quit playing with your little friends I don't have all day." It was Judy, Doug's sister, coming to pick her brother up to take him home before she went to the threatre of her school for a play rehearsal.
A smile crept across his lips for he knew he was saved. His sister may not be a complete angel, but at this moment she was that and more. Roger was froze in his tracks, his hand was still gripping the sweater and his arm pulled back for a punch, but a goofy look was slowly spreading across his face as he stared at Judy. Doug couldn't help but laugh quietly to himself for he knew how smitten Roger is with Judy and this was exactly what he needed to keep from getting a beating.
Judy hit the horn again with more force, "Come on! I don't have time for this!"
"C-coming, Judy!" Doug managed to choke out then looked to Roger. "You don't want to do this, Rog. Judy'll be late for her play if you beat me up now and you don't want that do you? Make her late I mean."
"Huh? Why ummm no. I mean, I don't care about that...I just changed my mind that's all," Roger replied calmly and shoved Doug away. He then turned and transfixed his gaze on the beauty behind the wheel of her car. Roger sighed dreamily making Doug smile more and Skeeter nudged him in the ribs as a sort of congratulations on the save Judy unknowingly gave to him.
"Well, see you in school tomorrow, Rog," Doug softly commented and made his way to his sister's car. Roger blinked and trotted after him, not willing to let Judy out of his sight. Doug flinched hearing the boots of Roger clicking on the sidewalk behind him. Doing his best to ignore the bully, Doug got into his sister's car and shut the door, but there was Roger, grinning stupidly through the window.
Judy frowned and looked at him over the rims of the dark sunglasses she always wore. "And what pray tell do you want?" she grumbled, putting the car in gear, but waiting for an answer.
"J-just wanted to say hello, Judy, and that you look nice today," Roger stammered, giving her the best smile he could muster. Doug just rolled his eyes and Skeeter almost gagged seeing how sappy Roger becomes around Doug's sister.
Judy narrowed her eyes and regarded him carefully for a moment making Roger shudder and he awaited a smart comment or insult as was so common with her. However much to everyone's shock, especially Doug's, Judy gave Roger a warm smile and said gently. "How nice. Well, hello to you too, Roger."
Roger blinked and he felt like everything around him stopped moving including his heart. She was never nice to him and if she was nice it was fake and forced, but not this time. This time it was sweet and sincere. He swallowed hard and stared at her for what seemed like forever. If only she'd give him one chance then she'd know how great of a guy he really is.
"I'll see you later, Roger. Say goodbye to your little friend, Dougie," Judy said softly, snapping Roger back to reality. He grinned slightly and waved then watched sadly as she pulled away with an embarrassed Doug slouching in the front seat of her car.
"Oh man, you really got it bad for her don't you?" Skeeter asked as he moved to Roger's side.
"Can it you loon!" Roger shouted and turned around almost ready to slug Doug's blue friend. "I don't know what you're talking about so just forget it."
"Alright, man, whatever you say." Skeeter blinked in confusion wondering why Roger wouldn't just admit that he liked Judy. It was nothing bad, but of course Roger would make it out to be the end of the world. Letting out a long sigh, Roger smoothed out his hair, straightened his jacket, then went back to where his bike was parked and jumped on it, peddling quickly away leaving Skeeter behind and forgotten.
It wasn't long until Roger was at Doug's house. He dropped his bike to the ground and quickly trotted up the walk and banged loudly at the front door. Doug opened it and flinched instinctively seeing Roger standing there. "Oh h-hello, Roger. What brings you here?" he nervously asked.
"Oh nothing, Funnie. I just was wondering if you wanna let bygones be bygones and junk like that."
Doug sighed and closed his eyes. "Judy isn't here, Roger, she's at the high school getting ready for a play she's directing. You just missed her."
Roger blinked and put on a phoney look of insult. "What makes you think I'm looking for your goofy sister, Funnie?" He then took a threatening step forward making Doug wince. Roger snickered, he liked that kind of power over people, it made him feel more tough then what he was.
"Fine, Rog, whatever. Now if you don't need anything else I have homework to finish up." Doug bid Roger goodbye and slowly shut the door.
Roger snickered and happily made his way back to his bike and he anxiously peddled in the direction of Judy's school. He wasn't exactly sure what he was going to do, but he just felt he had to see her now. Roger has been smitten with Doug's sister for quite some time now, but her normal attitude towards him was anything but warm and friendly. Today, however, Roger felt something different in her tone and smile and he prayed that this time his efforts to get her attention would finally pay off.
As he rounded a corner and the high school came into view, Roger's heart seemed to jump as he spotted Judy's car parked out front. He skidded his bike to a stop and a snicker escaped him as he saw her car was the only one around. Good. He didn't want to be disturbed by a bunch of losers as he tried to win the affections of Judy.
Carefully Roger parked his bike near the building, smoothed out his hair and casually climbed the stairs. Normally he would have tossed his bike to the ground, but he was always trying to impress Judy so he had to be on his best behaviour just in case she was around and saw his antics.
Roger then opened the front door of the theatre and poked his head inside and to his surprise the place was empty and very quiet. He stepped inside and looked around while straining his ears for any indication that Judy was near. Boot heels on wood floors have their own distinct sound and that's exactly what Roger heard coming from someplace backstage behind the large maroon coloured curtain.
A grin spread across his face, but quickly faded as he did not want to seem too anxious. Swallowing hard, he made his way down the long aisle towards the stage and he stood at the bottom of the stairs leading up to it undecided on what he should do next. He trembled slightly and knew the only way to find out if Judy was around was to just get onstage. As his foot touched the bottom step a voice rang out shattering the silence and sending a chill down his spine.
"Ok people listen up," Judy's said in a very authoritive tone, "Steven and Linda called off sick today so we have to just rehearse the scene following the one they are in. Frankly, I'm getting sick of Steve always calling off, but that's another issue. Turn to page 65 and let's get started shall we?"
Roger frowned seeing his lady love wasn't alone here, but yet it was good because he could at least watch her in action. Her plays were always outrageous, but any excuse to watch her was good enough. Taking a seat in the front row, Roger made himself comfortable, crossing his arms in front of his chest, and watched the play unnoticed.
During one of the more climatic scenes Judy suddenly noticed her one man audience and frowned. Great, what's he doing here? she thought and missed her line. "Let's take a break, I suddenly can't concentrate," she said through clenched teeth giving Roger a glare that made him wince. After her two assistants left she stomped over to the edge of the stage and knelt down so Roger could hear her. "What do you think you are doing?"
"Doug said you were here. I thought I'd come see you perform that's all," he lied, but said it with such manners it would have made him puke hearing it come out of someone else's mouth.
Judy sighed and sank back on the stage so she was sitting down. She rubbed her temples and sighed again. What was she going to do with this love struck pup that wouldn't leave her alone? "Listen, I don't have time to entertain you..." she trailed off as an idea popped into her head. Standing up and giving him a fake smile she asked, "How would you like to stand in for one of my performers? We need this play rehearsed and with him being absent is setting us back slightly. I know I shouldn't be asking you of all people this, but I'm getting sort of desperate."
Roger couldn't believe what he was hearing. Judy actually needed him for something other then pushing around. She may not have asked him in the best of ways, but she asked him something none-the-less. Nodding like a fool, Roger stood and climbed the stairs towards her. "S-sure thing, Judy, that'll be great!"
She smirked. "Now, I know you can't read all that well, but I'll help you if you need it." She shoved a script in his hands and left to get one for herself.
Roger glared at her for the comment she made, but he brushed it off knowing if he was nasty to her right now he could lose out on this temporary role before it even started. Finding a script for herself and flipping through it, Judy instructed Roger to turn to page 21 where Roger's character, Dirk, was found in an intense scene.
"The story is a pretty common one for the times. Dirk and my character, Renee, used to be lovers, but Dirk got too interested in sword fighting so Renee found a new beau that pays attention to her and Dirk is doing all he can to win her heart back, but she wants nothing to do with him anymore. This is the scene where he is trying to win her love again one last time."
Roger blinked. He was standing in for a character that is in love with Judy's character. What could be more perfect then that? Although he knew he was only standing in for today, Roger still was eager to get on with the play and see exactly how Dirk was trying to get Renee back.
"I do have some bad news though," Judy disrupted his thoughts. "Dirk does get killed in the end. It's in all the classic plays and of course mine is a tragic one, but what would you expect from me anyway?"
Roger shrugged and kept his eyes glued to the script, scanning the lines trying to see what was going on in this particular scene. He then stopped and a soft gasp escaped him, but he kept his tough guy attitude and wrinkled up his long, pointed nose in disgust. "Ugh, you got a kissing scene in here you want me to do?"
Judy smirked and looked at him over the rims of her dark glasses. "Why, yes, Roger. What's the matter? A tough guy like you never kissed someone before?"
He snorted and puffed out his chest. "I've kissed a lot of women, thank you."
"Your mother and granny doesn't count," Judy responded coldly and looked over her lines. "Now, get the scene straight. You're totally ticked off and just about demanding Renee to give up her new love and to go back out with you. Think you can handle that?"
"No problem! Being bossy is what I do best!" Roger looked over a few lines, smoothed out his hair and stepped threateningly towards Judy. "Renee, I've but one more plead for thee. Please, come back to me, I cannot be half the man I used to be without you."
"Sorry, Dirk, but thou had one chance and it is gone. I am happy with William. He knows my wants and needs and respects me for the woman I am. That was something you could never do."
"Please, I have learned my wrongs and am willing to change. Just give me one last chance."
"I cannot. Be gone, Dirk. I no longer love thee. I belong to William now and with him I shall stay."
Roger paused for a moment and stared blankly at the page for this was the part where he was to roughly kiss "Renee" in hopes she'll change her mind. Although this was like a dream come true for him, he wasn't so sure he wanted to go through with it anymore. He didn't mind the kiss so much, but the situation sort of made him uneasy.
"Come on, Roger, read your line or do you want to forget the entire thing?" Judy snarled impatiently, bringing him back to reality.
He cleared his throat and continued, "Fine, then you leave me no choice but to try one last time to win your heart," and with that he grabbed her roughly by the arms, pulled her close, hesitated for a moment, then tried a forced kiss that ended up being more clumsy then anything.
Judy squirmed and pulled back from him. "What the heck was that? I felt like I was kissing a fish!" She knew Roger well and figured the only way to get him to act the way the character should behave was to just push his buttons and get him fired up. She narrowed her eyes, "Maybe I should just wait for Steven to come back. All those hours of endless kiss rehearsals will pay off in the end. Heck, they already did because he got this scene down perfectly. Yes, maybe that's what I'll do. Steven IS the best kisser I know of."
Roger growled and lowered his eyebrows. "Is that so, huh? Well, how about this then?" He threw his script on the floor and yanked Judy into his arms. He then gave her a kiss spawned out of his anger and jealousy over Steven. Where did that guy get off in kissing Judy like that anyway? He'll show her, he'll show her that he is a good kisser too.
Judy's eyes widened at his anger, but yet inside she smiled for she got exactly what she was hoping for. Roger had it in him to be a good actor if he just put his mind to it. She then realized that she was clutching the back of his leather jacket tightly, keeping him near as opposed to pushing back from him and wanting to get away like her character is supposed to.
Furrowing her brow she shoved him away from her and cuffed his shoulder. "You cad!" she cried.
Roger pushed her back and wiped his mouth with his sleeve. "Be gone then, wench. I need not any more poison from your lips. Your lover shall rue the day he stole you from me. If I cannot have you, then neither can he!"
Judy crossed her arms in front of her chest and grinned at him proudly. "Bravo, Mister Klotz, bravo! You impressed me, but don't let it go to your head."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever. No big deal," he shrugged calmly, but his insides were screaming at him. He kissed her! He finally kissed Judy Funnie. It may not have been exactly how he hoped and fantasized about, but it was a kiss none the less and if he wasn't mistaken she let it go on longer then what was called for in the script.
Then Judy said something that just about knocked him over. "How would you like to take over the role as Dirk? Steven is really trying my patience and hasn't shown up for the last few rehearsals and I need someone that's going to be responsible with the part as well as take the part seriously. Would you like it? You have potential, you really do."
Instead of taking the offer graciously and thanking her, Roger did what he does best. "Ooooh I see...you just can't get enough of the old Klotz charm! You fell victim to my all powerful kiss and need more."
Judy rolled her eyes. "Give me a break, Roger! Your kiss wasn't that great, but your acting skills are promising not to mention you really got into character rather well such is why I asked you to try this scene out. I knew you had it in you." She stepped towards him and poked him in the chest. "Besides, I am an actress, I act and know how to do it. I don't get involved with my fellow performers and I certainly don't take kiss scenes seriously. Got it?"
Roger felt slightly offended, but he didn't let it show. Instead he just brushed off his jacket and bent to pick up the script he tossed on the floor. "Sure thing, girly girl. Whatever you say."
"Now then," Judy continued also looking over her script, avoiding his eyes. "Just to fill you in more, your character is going to be in a duel with Renee's lover later on and ultimately poor Dirk is going to get killed in the end. Renee is devastated, but it's her own fault for allowing the fight to happen. My question to you is, can you handle a sword? A fencing sword to be exact?"
"No problem," Roger replied confidently. "Being rich does have it's advantages you know. When you have money to burn you end up taking classes just to say you took them and sword fighting was one of my faves." He then held tightly onto the lapels of his jacket and inhaled deeply, "Yes, you are looking at one fine swordsman."
He's unbelievable, Judy thought with a unimpressed shake of her head. "Ok then, prove it." She trotted backstage and brought out two duelling swords and tossed him one. "These are just props. Of course we can't use the real things, but these are just as good. Show me what you got, Klotz."
"My pleasure," he smirked and took on a defensive stance.
Judy leered at him. "So, you know how to stand. Big deal. Let's see if you can fight! En guarde!" She then lunged forward quickly and purposely just to try and throw him off guard, but Roger was quicker and easily stepped out of the way and countered with his sword. Judy lunged again and was yet again dodged and Roger spun around and cracked Judy's sword hard with his making her flinch with slight pain as the metal vibrated in her hand. He was good, shockingly good. It was the first time his boasting was actually true. "Don't forget this is just a play, Klotz, not the real thing."
"Of course not, girly. Just bask in my glory," he snickered and he thrust his sword forward and knocked her sword out of her hand, clattering on the stage. He stepped forward and touched her lightly on the stomach with the tip of his sword. "Touche, my sweet."
She snarled at him, but it melted away into a toothy grin. "Alrighty, I'm impressed yet again. You got the part if you want it."
"It would be my honour," he replied and bowed over dramatically at her. He then reached forward and took her hand in his and smiled. "Anything to please you, my dear." With that he lightly kissed her hand and stepped back to lean against his sword, cockiness oozing from his posture.
"You never stop do you?" Judy grumbled and motioned for the sword to be given back to her. Roger handed it back to her and watched as she went to pick up the one he smacked out of her hand. The whole while she was muttering to herself, disgusted that she underestimated him and disgusted in herself for asking him to stick around and join the play.
Not paying attention to what she was doing, Judy's foot became entangled in a light cord that was laying dangerously on the stage. She stumbled forward and her arms flailed trying to help her maintain her balance, the swords flung to the side. Without even hesitating, Roger darted forward and managed to grab Judy before she hit the ground, but the forward momentum got the better of him and he fell hard on his side, but cradling Judy protectively in his arms.
He groaned, the wind knocked out of him, but Judy was safe and that's all he was concerned with. She shook her head and looked down at him, their noses almost touching. Judy swallowed hard not exactly knowing what to make of the entire situation. Roger's eyes fluttered open and he gasped slightly seeing how close she was to him, but he didn't move. He just stared at her like a deer caught up in headlights. They lay together for long minutes before Judy felt her face warm with a blush. Pushing her shades back up on her nose, she pushed back from him slightly, "Th-thanks, Rog. That was quick thinking."
"Anytime," he gulped, watching her wondering what she was going to do. Much to his sorrow, but relief, she stood and brushed herself off. Her pride was obviously hurt, but she wasn't blushing for that reason and he knew it as well as she did. However, he kept his mouth shut instead of seizing the chance to say something sarcastic. Standing as well, Roger helped Judy pick up the swords and he carried them backstage, setting them on a trunk. He glanced at her then lowered his eyes. "I think I better make tracks. I got a script to study and it's getting late. Let me know when we should rehearse, ok?"
"How about tomorrow afternoon? I mean, it is Saturday and all. You could stop by the house and we can practice there since the theatre is being used for a show. Just bring the script and wear comfortable clothes. I mean...not that the clothes you have on now aren't comfortable, I just mean, uhhhh...forget it." She painted herself into a corner and they both knew it. Roger snickered as he watched her face redden all the more in embarrassment.
"I know what you mean," he nodded and shoved the script in his jacket pocket. "I'll be over tomorrow after I eat lunch. If that's fine with you."
Judy nodded as well, but didn't take her eyes off the script in her hands. "Sounds good to me, Rog. See you tomorrow."
"See ya," he took one last look at her and walked calmly out of the theatre. Once outside he gave out a yelp of triumph and jumped on his bike, peddling quickly back home to his mansion. He did it. He finally did it and got Judy to talk to him like a normal human being. He also got somewhat of a date with her tomorrow, but best of all he got close to her...closer then he ever thought he'd be allowed not to mention the kiss even though it was staged. He just only hoped that this would be the start of something fantastic and not just some scene in one of her plays.::
Yesterday during lunch, Roger was debating on starting a food fight and he held a slab of the horrible Magic Meat in his hand, poised and ready to fling at the nearest loser he could find. Unfortunately he chose his attack position in front of the cafeteria door and he got booted in the back with it by an unaware Doug. The sudden surprise of being hit with the door caused Roger to carelessly fling the meat away and it soared over his intended target and instead nailed Mr. Bone, the school vice principal, right in the face.
Roger knew it was useless to hide or try to talk his way out of it because Mr. Bone would never believe that it was just an accident. So, he just stood there awaiting his normal punishment of detention. However, Mr. Bone was more upset about this then usual and gave Roger a one day suspension from school on top of the detention scheduled for the weekend.
This infuriated Roger, but he couldn't do anything to Doug at this point. Instead he stomped out of the cafeteria and made his way to the principal's office to get the note he needed to take home to his mother. Of course Edwina, Mrs. Klotz, was unhappy with her son's behaviour and told him that he had to stop clowning around in school and start taking things seriously or he'd be held back yet again.
Roger protested trying to explain, but Edwina wouldn't hear it and sent him to his room so he could think about what he had done. This was not how a rich guy should be treated! he thought angrily to himself as he stormed up the stairs. "It's not fair!" he shouted from his bedroom door before he slammed it shut with such force the whole house seemed to shake in his rage.
Roger sat down heavily on his bed and grumbled about how stupid and unfair all of this was and that Doug was really going to get it come tomorrow. Although Doug had no clue that Roger was standing on the other side of the door and didn't mean to hit him, it still made Roger feel good to pass the blame onto someone other then himself. Logic would say that if he wasn't trying to start a food fight to begin with this never would have happened, but logic like that didn't work on Roger Klotz.
The next day was slow and boring and any other kid would have welcomed a day off from school, but Roger couldn't allow joy this time. All that was on his mind was revenge and the only way he knew he could get it and fully satisfy himself was if he creamed Doug after school. It was crude and simple, but very effective. A good pounding is what that goody goody deserved and it would be enough to appease Roger as well.
At about 2:30 Roger jumped on his bike and rode quickly to Beebe Bluff Middle School and there he waited, leaning against a tree, arms folded tightly against his chest. The bell finally rang promptly at 3:00 and for the first time since yesterday Roger actually perked up. He snickered and slapped his fist into the palm of his other hand a few times and stepped forward, away from the tree, so he could wait for Doug to exit the building. A slow, sinister smirk spread across his face as he spotted his prey and he strode forward to confront him.
Skeeter Valentine was at Doug's side as usual and he noticed Roger first. "Umm...Doug? I think Roger's looking for you and he doesn't look too pleased, man."
Doug turned and stopped in his tracks as he watched the bully heading his way, scowling. Doug tugged at his collar and tried his best to smile. "H-hello Roger. I'm really sorry about what happened yesterday. I had no idea that you..."
"Can it Funnie! I ain't here for no sob story from you. You're gonna get it for getting me in trouble with Mr. Bone and my mom!" He then quickly reached forward and grabbed the front of Doug's green sweater and held his arm back, fist ready to strike. Skeeter was about to jump in and try to stop this senseless act, but the look on Roger's face alone told him it was best to stay out of it. "Say your prayers, Funnie," Roger snarled.
Doug squeezed his eyes shut and waited for the pounding he knew he was going to get when a car horn made him jump. "Come on, Dougie, quit playing with your little friends I don't have all day." It was Judy, Doug's sister, coming to pick her brother up to take him home before she went to the threatre of her school for a play rehearsal.
A smile crept across his lips for he knew he was saved. His sister may not be a complete angel, but at this moment she was that and more. Roger was froze in his tracks, his hand was still gripping the sweater and his arm pulled back for a punch, but a goofy look was slowly spreading across his face as he stared at Judy. Doug couldn't help but laugh quietly to himself for he knew how smitten Roger is with Judy and this was exactly what he needed to keep from getting a beating.
Judy hit the horn again with more force, "Come on! I don't have time for this!"
"C-coming, Judy!" Doug managed to choke out then looked to Roger. "You don't want to do this, Rog. Judy'll be late for her play if you beat me up now and you don't want that do you? Make her late I mean."
"Huh? Why ummm no. I mean, I don't care about that...I just changed my mind that's all," Roger replied calmly and shoved Doug away. He then turned and transfixed his gaze on the beauty behind the wheel of her car. Roger sighed dreamily making Doug smile more and Skeeter nudged him in the ribs as a sort of congratulations on the save Judy unknowingly gave to him.
"Well, see you in school tomorrow, Rog," Doug softly commented and made his way to his sister's car. Roger blinked and trotted after him, not willing to let Judy out of his sight. Doug flinched hearing the boots of Roger clicking on the sidewalk behind him. Doing his best to ignore the bully, Doug got into his sister's car and shut the door, but there was Roger, grinning stupidly through the window.
Judy frowned and looked at him over the rims of the dark sunglasses she always wore. "And what pray tell do you want?" she grumbled, putting the car in gear, but waiting for an answer.
"J-just wanted to say hello, Judy, and that you look nice today," Roger stammered, giving her the best smile he could muster. Doug just rolled his eyes and Skeeter almost gagged seeing how sappy Roger becomes around Doug's sister.
Judy narrowed her eyes and regarded him carefully for a moment making Roger shudder and he awaited a smart comment or insult as was so common with her. However much to everyone's shock, especially Doug's, Judy gave Roger a warm smile and said gently. "How nice. Well, hello to you too, Roger."
Roger blinked and he felt like everything around him stopped moving including his heart. She was never nice to him and if she was nice it was fake and forced, but not this time. This time it was sweet and sincere. He swallowed hard and stared at her for what seemed like forever. If only she'd give him one chance then she'd know how great of a guy he really is.
"I'll see you later, Roger. Say goodbye to your little friend, Dougie," Judy said softly, snapping Roger back to reality. He grinned slightly and waved then watched sadly as she pulled away with an embarrassed Doug slouching in the front seat of her car.
"Oh man, you really got it bad for her don't you?" Skeeter asked as he moved to Roger's side.
"Can it you loon!" Roger shouted and turned around almost ready to slug Doug's blue friend. "I don't know what you're talking about so just forget it."
"Alright, man, whatever you say." Skeeter blinked in confusion wondering why Roger wouldn't just admit that he liked Judy. It was nothing bad, but of course Roger would make it out to be the end of the world. Letting out a long sigh, Roger smoothed out his hair, straightened his jacket, then went back to where his bike was parked and jumped on it, peddling quickly away leaving Skeeter behind and forgotten.
It wasn't long until Roger was at Doug's house. He dropped his bike to the ground and quickly trotted up the walk and banged loudly at the front door. Doug opened it and flinched instinctively seeing Roger standing there. "Oh h-hello, Roger. What brings you here?" he nervously asked.
"Oh nothing, Funnie. I just was wondering if you wanna let bygones be bygones and junk like that."
Doug sighed and closed his eyes. "Judy isn't here, Roger, she's at the high school getting ready for a play she's directing. You just missed her."
Roger blinked and put on a phoney look of insult. "What makes you think I'm looking for your goofy sister, Funnie?" He then took a threatening step forward making Doug wince. Roger snickered, he liked that kind of power over people, it made him feel more tough then what he was.
"Fine, Rog, whatever. Now if you don't need anything else I have homework to finish up." Doug bid Roger goodbye and slowly shut the door.
Roger snickered and happily made his way back to his bike and he anxiously peddled in the direction of Judy's school. He wasn't exactly sure what he was going to do, but he just felt he had to see her now. Roger has been smitten with Doug's sister for quite some time now, but her normal attitude towards him was anything but warm and friendly. Today, however, Roger felt something different in her tone and smile and he prayed that this time his efforts to get her attention would finally pay off.
As he rounded a corner and the high school came into view, Roger's heart seemed to jump as he spotted Judy's car parked out front. He skidded his bike to a stop and a snicker escaped him as he saw her car was the only one around. Good. He didn't want to be disturbed by a bunch of losers as he tried to win the affections of Judy.
Carefully Roger parked his bike near the building, smoothed out his hair and casually climbed the stairs. Normally he would have tossed his bike to the ground, but he was always trying to impress Judy so he had to be on his best behaviour just in case she was around and saw his antics.
Roger then opened the front door of the theatre and poked his head inside and to his surprise the place was empty and very quiet. He stepped inside and looked around while straining his ears for any indication that Judy was near. Boot heels on wood floors have their own distinct sound and that's exactly what Roger heard coming from someplace backstage behind the large maroon coloured curtain.
A grin spread across his face, but quickly faded as he did not want to seem too anxious. Swallowing hard, he made his way down the long aisle towards the stage and he stood at the bottom of the stairs leading up to it undecided on what he should do next. He trembled slightly and knew the only way to find out if Judy was around was to just get onstage. As his foot touched the bottom step a voice rang out shattering the silence and sending a chill down his spine.
"Ok people listen up," Judy's said in a very authoritive tone, "Steven and Linda called off sick today so we have to just rehearse the scene following the one they are in. Frankly, I'm getting sick of Steve always calling off, but that's another issue. Turn to page 65 and let's get started shall we?"
Roger frowned seeing his lady love wasn't alone here, but yet it was good because he could at least watch her in action. Her plays were always outrageous, but any excuse to watch her was good enough. Taking a seat in the front row, Roger made himself comfortable, crossing his arms in front of his chest, and watched the play unnoticed.
During one of the more climatic scenes Judy suddenly noticed her one man audience and frowned. Great, what's he doing here? she thought and missed her line. "Let's take a break, I suddenly can't concentrate," she said through clenched teeth giving Roger a glare that made him wince. After her two assistants left she stomped over to the edge of the stage and knelt down so Roger could hear her. "What do you think you are doing?"
"Doug said you were here. I thought I'd come see you perform that's all," he lied, but said it with such manners it would have made him puke hearing it come out of someone else's mouth.
Judy sighed and sank back on the stage so she was sitting down. She rubbed her temples and sighed again. What was she going to do with this love struck pup that wouldn't leave her alone? "Listen, I don't have time to entertain you..." she trailed off as an idea popped into her head. Standing up and giving him a fake smile she asked, "How would you like to stand in for one of my performers? We need this play rehearsed and with him being absent is setting us back slightly. I know I shouldn't be asking you of all people this, but I'm getting sort of desperate."
Roger couldn't believe what he was hearing. Judy actually needed him for something other then pushing around. She may not have asked him in the best of ways, but she asked him something none-the-less. Nodding like a fool, Roger stood and climbed the stairs towards her. "S-sure thing, Judy, that'll be great!"
She smirked. "Now, I know you can't read all that well, but I'll help you if you need it." She shoved a script in his hands and left to get one for herself.
Roger glared at her for the comment she made, but he brushed it off knowing if he was nasty to her right now he could lose out on this temporary role before it even started. Finding a script for herself and flipping through it, Judy instructed Roger to turn to page 21 where Roger's character, Dirk, was found in an intense scene.
"The story is a pretty common one for the times. Dirk and my character, Renee, used to be lovers, but Dirk got too interested in sword fighting so Renee found a new beau that pays attention to her and Dirk is doing all he can to win her heart back, but she wants nothing to do with him anymore. This is the scene where he is trying to win her love again one last time."
Roger blinked. He was standing in for a character that is in love with Judy's character. What could be more perfect then that? Although he knew he was only standing in for today, Roger still was eager to get on with the play and see exactly how Dirk was trying to get Renee back.
"I do have some bad news though," Judy disrupted his thoughts. "Dirk does get killed in the end. It's in all the classic plays and of course mine is a tragic one, but what would you expect from me anyway?"
Roger shrugged and kept his eyes glued to the script, scanning the lines trying to see what was going on in this particular scene. He then stopped and a soft gasp escaped him, but he kept his tough guy attitude and wrinkled up his long, pointed nose in disgust. "Ugh, you got a kissing scene in here you want me to do?"
Judy smirked and looked at him over the rims of her dark glasses. "Why, yes, Roger. What's the matter? A tough guy like you never kissed someone before?"
He snorted and puffed out his chest. "I've kissed a lot of women, thank you."
"Your mother and granny doesn't count," Judy responded coldly and looked over her lines. "Now, get the scene straight. You're totally ticked off and just about demanding Renee to give up her new love and to go back out with you. Think you can handle that?"
"No problem! Being bossy is what I do best!" Roger looked over a few lines, smoothed out his hair and stepped threateningly towards Judy. "Renee, I've but one more plead for thee. Please, come back to me, I cannot be half the man I used to be without you."
"Sorry, Dirk, but thou had one chance and it is gone. I am happy with William. He knows my wants and needs and respects me for the woman I am. That was something you could never do."
"Please, I have learned my wrongs and am willing to change. Just give me one last chance."
"I cannot. Be gone, Dirk. I no longer love thee. I belong to William now and with him I shall stay."
Roger paused for a moment and stared blankly at the page for this was the part where he was to roughly kiss "Renee" in hopes she'll change her mind. Although this was like a dream come true for him, he wasn't so sure he wanted to go through with it anymore. He didn't mind the kiss so much, but the situation sort of made him uneasy.
"Come on, Roger, read your line or do you want to forget the entire thing?" Judy snarled impatiently, bringing him back to reality.
He cleared his throat and continued, "Fine, then you leave me no choice but to try one last time to win your heart," and with that he grabbed her roughly by the arms, pulled her close, hesitated for a moment, then tried a forced kiss that ended up being more clumsy then anything.
Judy squirmed and pulled back from him. "What the heck was that? I felt like I was kissing a fish!" She knew Roger well and figured the only way to get him to act the way the character should behave was to just push his buttons and get him fired up. She narrowed her eyes, "Maybe I should just wait for Steven to come back. All those hours of endless kiss rehearsals will pay off in the end. Heck, they already did because he got this scene down perfectly. Yes, maybe that's what I'll do. Steven IS the best kisser I know of."
Roger growled and lowered his eyebrows. "Is that so, huh? Well, how about this then?" He threw his script on the floor and yanked Judy into his arms. He then gave her a kiss spawned out of his anger and jealousy over Steven. Where did that guy get off in kissing Judy like that anyway? He'll show her, he'll show her that he is a good kisser too.
Judy's eyes widened at his anger, but yet inside she smiled for she got exactly what she was hoping for. Roger had it in him to be a good actor if he just put his mind to it. She then realized that she was clutching the back of his leather jacket tightly, keeping him near as opposed to pushing back from him and wanting to get away like her character is supposed to.
Furrowing her brow she shoved him away from her and cuffed his shoulder. "You cad!" she cried.
Roger pushed her back and wiped his mouth with his sleeve. "Be gone then, wench. I need not any more poison from your lips. Your lover shall rue the day he stole you from me. If I cannot have you, then neither can he!"
Judy crossed her arms in front of her chest and grinned at him proudly. "Bravo, Mister Klotz, bravo! You impressed me, but don't let it go to your head."
"Yeah, yeah, whatever. No big deal," he shrugged calmly, but his insides were screaming at him. He kissed her! He finally kissed Judy Funnie. It may not have been exactly how he hoped and fantasized about, but it was a kiss none the less and if he wasn't mistaken she let it go on longer then what was called for in the script.
Then Judy said something that just about knocked him over. "How would you like to take over the role as Dirk? Steven is really trying my patience and hasn't shown up for the last few rehearsals and I need someone that's going to be responsible with the part as well as take the part seriously. Would you like it? You have potential, you really do."
Instead of taking the offer graciously and thanking her, Roger did what he does best. "Ooooh I see...you just can't get enough of the old Klotz charm! You fell victim to my all powerful kiss and need more."
Judy rolled her eyes. "Give me a break, Roger! Your kiss wasn't that great, but your acting skills are promising not to mention you really got into character rather well such is why I asked you to try this scene out. I knew you had it in you." She stepped towards him and poked him in the chest. "Besides, I am an actress, I act and know how to do it. I don't get involved with my fellow performers and I certainly don't take kiss scenes seriously. Got it?"
Roger felt slightly offended, but he didn't let it show. Instead he just brushed off his jacket and bent to pick up the script he tossed on the floor. "Sure thing, girly girl. Whatever you say."
"Now then," Judy continued also looking over her script, avoiding his eyes. "Just to fill you in more, your character is going to be in a duel with Renee's lover later on and ultimately poor Dirk is going to get killed in the end. Renee is devastated, but it's her own fault for allowing the fight to happen. My question to you is, can you handle a sword? A fencing sword to be exact?"
"No problem," Roger replied confidently. "Being rich does have it's advantages you know. When you have money to burn you end up taking classes just to say you took them and sword fighting was one of my faves." He then held tightly onto the lapels of his jacket and inhaled deeply, "Yes, you are looking at one fine swordsman."
He's unbelievable, Judy thought with a unimpressed shake of her head. "Ok then, prove it." She trotted backstage and brought out two duelling swords and tossed him one. "These are just props. Of course we can't use the real things, but these are just as good. Show me what you got, Klotz."
"My pleasure," he smirked and took on a defensive stance.
Judy leered at him. "So, you know how to stand. Big deal. Let's see if you can fight! En guarde!" She then lunged forward quickly and purposely just to try and throw him off guard, but Roger was quicker and easily stepped out of the way and countered with his sword. Judy lunged again and was yet again dodged and Roger spun around and cracked Judy's sword hard with his making her flinch with slight pain as the metal vibrated in her hand. He was good, shockingly good. It was the first time his boasting was actually true. "Don't forget this is just a play, Klotz, not the real thing."
"Of course not, girly. Just bask in my glory," he snickered and he thrust his sword forward and knocked her sword out of her hand, clattering on the stage. He stepped forward and touched her lightly on the stomach with the tip of his sword. "Touche, my sweet."
She snarled at him, but it melted away into a toothy grin. "Alrighty, I'm impressed yet again. You got the part if you want it."
"It would be my honour," he replied and bowed over dramatically at her. He then reached forward and took her hand in his and smiled. "Anything to please you, my dear." With that he lightly kissed her hand and stepped back to lean against his sword, cockiness oozing from his posture.
"You never stop do you?" Judy grumbled and motioned for the sword to be given back to her. Roger handed it back to her and watched as she went to pick up the one he smacked out of her hand. The whole while she was muttering to herself, disgusted that she underestimated him and disgusted in herself for asking him to stick around and join the play.
Not paying attention to what she was doing, Judy's foot became entangled in a light cord that was laying dangerously on the stage. She stumbled forward and her arms flailed trying to help her maintain her balance, the swords flung to the side. Without even hesitating, Roger darted forward and managed to grab Judy before she hit the ground, but the forward momentum got the better of him and he fell hard on his side, but cradling Judy protectively in his arms.
He groaned, the wind knocked out of him, but Judy was safe and that's all he was concerned with. She shook her head and looked down at him, their noses almost touching. Judy swallowed hard not exactly knowing what to make of the entire situation. Roger's eyes fluttered open and he gasped slightly seeing how close she was to him, but he didn't move. He just stared at her like a deer caught up in headlights. They lay together for long minutes before Judy felt her face warm with a blush. Pushing her shades back up on her nose, she pushed back from him slightly, "Th-thanks, Rog. That was quick thinking."
"Anytime," he gulped, watching her wondering what she was going to do. Much to his sorrow, but relief, she stood and brushed herself off. Her pride was obviously hurt, but she wasn't blushing for that reason and he knew it as well as she did. However, he kept his mouth shut instead of seizing the chance to say something sarcastic. Standing as well, Roger helped Judy pick up the swords and he carried them backstage, setting them on a trunk. He glanced at her then lowered his eyes. "I think I better make tracks. I got a script to study and it's getting late. Let me know when we should rehearse, ok?"
"How about tomorrow afternoon? I mean, it is Saturday and all. You could stop by the house and we can practice there since the theatre is being used for a show. Just bring the script and wear comfortable clothes. I mean...not that the clothes you have on now aren't comfortable, I just mean, uhhhh...forget it." She painted herself into a corner and they both knew it. Roger snickered as he watched her face redden all the more in embarrassment.
"I know what you mean," he nodded and shoved the script in his jacket pocket. "I'll be over tomorrow after I eat lunch. If that's fine with you."
Judy nodded as well, but didn't take her eyes off the script in her hands. "Sounds good to me, Rog. See you tomorrow."
"See ya," he took one last look at her and walked calmly out of the theatre. Once outside he gave out a yelp of triumph and jumped on his bike, peddling quickly back home to his mansion. He did it. He finally did it and got Judy to talk to him like a normal human being. He also got somewhat of a date with her tomorrow, but best of all he got close to her...closer then he ever thought he'd be allowed not to mention the kiss even though it was staged. He just only hoped that this would be the start of something fantastic and not just some scene in one of her plays.::